Manila: The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) announced that it will activate a full alert status, or red alert, from December 23 to January 2. The bureau will begin heightened or blue alert status on December 15, requiring half of its personnel to be on duty, but will transition to a full alert where all personnel are required to be present, in response to the potential for critical incidents during the holiday period.

According to Philippines News Agency, BFP spokesperson Sr. Supt. Bonifacio Carta explained that the red alert status mandates personnel to remain in their offices or stations for 24-hour monitoring to ensure immediate response capabilities. All leave applications, except for sick leave, will be suspended during this period. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance emergency preparedness and response during a time when fire-related incidents are more likely to occur.

In addition to the alert status, the BFP will deploy 32,000 personnel nationwide as part of the "Oplan Paalala - Iwas Paputok" campaign. This effort aims to increase fire safety awareness during holiday celebrations. The campaign will see fire trucks and ambulances stationed at strategic locations, while personnel will engage in public information campaigns and conduct thorough inspections of pyrotechnics, electrical decorations, and other high-risk sites.

Furthermore, BFP Public Information Offices will actively disseminate fire safety reminders via social media, using short reels, audiovisual presentations, and posters to reach a broad audience. Carta also urged the public to ensure the safety of holiday decorations, appoint responsible individuals for household chores, and comply with laws regarding firecracker and pyrotechnic use.