ILOILO City – The city government is moving to strengthen its firefighting capability by pursuing the acquisition of additional fire trucks after the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) disclosed that it only has 17 serviceable fire trucks, raising concerns over the city’s readiness to respond to fires and other emergencies.
Mayor Raisa Treñas said the city government is working closely with the BFP on a comprehensive effort to upgrade the city’s emergency response system, including the planned renovation of the 911 Emergency Operations Center – Iloilo City Satellite Office at the Iloilo City Fire Station in Fort San Pedro.
“Our goal is to make emergency response in Iloilo City faster, more efficient, and better,” Treñas said.
BFP-Iloilo City data showed that of the city’s 20 fire trucks, two are unserviceable, while one unit has been declared beyond economic repair, leaving the bureau with a reduced fleet as the city’s population and development continue to grow.
The city fire station currently has 192 personnel assigned to emergency and firefighting operations.
Treñas said the modernization effort goes beyond replacing equipment, emphasizing that increasing the number of firefighters is equally important to improve response time and operational efficiency.
“I am also pleased that Regional Director Edwin Vargas of BFP assured us that additional firefighter recruits will be assigned to Iloilo City. Through this collaboration, we will continue strengthening our emergency services for the safety of all Ilonggos,” she said.
She added that upgrading the 911 Emergency Operations Center will improve coordination among first responders during fires and other emergencies, allowing rescue units to respond more efficiently.
The combination of additional fire trucks, increased manpower, and upgraded emergency command facilities would significantly enhance the BFP’s operational readiness as Iloilo City continues to expand and faces growing demand for emergency services./PN
