Senator Christopher “Bong” Go underscored the importance of fire safety and prevention as the country marks Fire Prevention Month this March. A consistent advocate for disaster resilience, Go reminded Filipinos to stay vigilant against fire hazards and assured continued government support for fire victims.
Fire Prevention Month, observed annually in March, serves as a nationwide campaign to raise awareness about fire hazards and safety measures. Established through Presidential Proclamation No. 115-A, the observance highlights the need for heightened vigilance, particularly during the dry season when fire incidents peak. The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) spearheads various initiatives including community drills, educational campaigns, and inspections to minimize the risk of destructive fires.
Go, who has been regularly assisting fire victims across the country, reiterated the need for community cooperation and proactive measures to reduce fire-related incidents.
“Alam kong mahirap mawalan ng tirahan, lalo na kung galing ito sa sunog na walang pasintabi kung umatake. Pero huwag po kayong mawalan ng pag-asa. Magtulungan lang po tayo dahil tayu-tayo rin ang magdadamayan sa ganitong pagsubok,” he said.
The senator has long been known for his swift response to fires and calamities, personally visiting affected communities to provide immediate assistance.
“Ang gamit ay nabibili, ang pera ay kikitain, subalit ‘yung perang kikitain ay hindi po nakakabili ng buhay. A lost life is a lost life forever. Importante ay buhay tayo kaya pangalagaan natin ang buhay na ibinigay sa atin ng Panginoon,” he added.
Beyond immediate emergency response, Go has been pushing for long-term solutions to strengthen fire prevention and response capabilities nationwide. He highlighted the ongoing modernization efforts of the BFP under Republic Act No. 11589, or the BFP Modernization Act of 2021, which he principally authored and co-sponsored.
“Karagdagang kagamitan, firefighters, at monthly education campaigns para turuan ang ating mga kababayan na mag-ingat, ‘yan po ang BFP Modernization Act. Dahil bawat bahay na nasusunog, nadadamay ang kapitbahay. Kaya dapat doble ingat tayo,” stressed Go.
The law mandates a ten-year modernization plan that includes enhanced training, better equipment, additional firefighters, and nationwide fire prevention campaigns in coordination with local government units.
“Ang sunog ay hindi lang aksidente, kadalasan ito ay resulta ng kapabayaan o kakulangan sa paghahanda. Kaya patuloy natin itong tututukan sa pamamagitan ng mas maayos na kagamitan at mas maraming bumbero na handang rumesponde anumang oras,” Go explained.
Go also highlighted the recently enacted RA 12076, also known as the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act. Signed on December 6, 2024, the law mandates the establishment of permanent, safe, and well-equipped evacuation centers in all cities and municipalities across the Philippines.
As the principal author and co-sponsor of the law, Go emphasized its role in ensuring the safety and dignity of disaster-affected communities while expediting recovery efforts.
This year’s Fire Prevention Month carries the theme set by the BFP, which reinforces the importance of community participation in fire safety efforts. With incidents of residential and commercial fires continuing to pose threats to lives and livelihoods, authorities emphasize the need for strict compliance with fire codes, responsible handling of flammable materials, and proper maintenance of electrical systems to prevent disasters.
He also encouraged Filipinos to adopt fire safety habits in their homes, such as proper electrical maintenance, responsible use of gas stoves, and having an emergency plan in case of fire.
As the senator continues his health and social welfare initiatives, he reiterated his commitment to ensuring that fire victims receive the necessary support to recover and rebuild their lives.
“Bilang inyong Mr. Malasakit, anumang pagsubok ang ating haharapin sa susunod na mga araw, patuloy akong magseserbisyo sa inyong lahat dahil bisyo ko na ang magserbisyo at naniniwala ako na ang serbisyo sa tao ay serbisyo sa Diyos,” Go said.
With March being a critical period for fire prevention awareness, Go urged local government units and the public to work together in strengthening fire safety measures. Through sustained efforts and proactive legislation, he aims to build a safer and more prepared nation.
