Manila: The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) is requesting approximately PHP3.1 billion from the proposed 2027 budget to ensure the maintenance of fire trucks, facilities, and fire stations. This move comes after concerns were raised by senators regarding non-functional fire trucks in provincial areas due to delayed repairs and lack of spare parts.
According to Philippines News Agency, during a Senate Finance Subcommittee J hearing on the Department of the Interior and Local Government's budget proposal, Senator Erwin Tulfo questioned whether the BFP had allocated funds for preventive maintenance. Firefighters in the provinces have voiced concerns about fire trucks that are not operational.
Fire Chief Superintendent Wilberto Rico Neil Kwan Tiu explained that the BFP's proposal within the 2027 National Expenditure Program includes PHP3.097 billion dedicated to maintenance and other operating expenses. The allocation covers preventive maintenance services for engines, facilities, and fire stations.
Senator Tulfo also highlighted the lack of essential firefighting equipment in the provinces. Some firefighters outside Metro Manila reportedly possess only basic gear such as boots and raincoat-like outfits, with many lacking oxygen tanks or face masks. Tiu responded by mentioning that the BFP is revising the specifications for future fire truck procurement to ensure they are equipped with necessary tools and equipment.
The issue of maintenance funding emerged as BFP officials reported that 106 local government units still lack fire trucks, and 61 have no fire stations. Tiu stated that while the BFP needs 4,178 fire trucks nationwide, it currently has only 2,997 units, leaving a shortfall of 1,181 units, not accounting for old fire trucks that require replacement.
DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla shared that the department, along with the BFP, is preparing a government-to-government procurement agreement with South Korea to acquire 1,500 fire trucks over two-and-a-half to three years as part of a long-term strategy to replenish the fleet. Remulla emphasized that this approach is advantageous for Filipinos and could eliminate corruption in the procurement process by cutting out middlemen.
Senator Joseph Victor 'JV' Ejercito urged the BFP to prioritize municipalities without fire trucks or stations, especially those in lower-income areas unable to support their own fire services. Ejercito expressed hope that the BFP would focus efforts on closing this gap.
The BFP's budget forms part of the DILG's proposed PHP332.5-billion spending plan for 2027.
