Ilocos Norte: The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in Ilocos Norte on Thursday reported a significant decline in forest fire incidents in the province for the first quarter of this year.

According to Philippines News Agency, Fire Superintendent Roxanne Annie Parado, Provincial Fire Marshal, stated that only three forest fires were recorded in the province during the first quarter, marking a dramatic decrease from the 26 incidents reported during the same period last year. Parado attributed this reduction to the collaborative efforts of an inter-agency task force established last year to address the causes of forest fires.

The task force comprises representatives from the BFP, the Philippine National Police (PNP), Philippine Marine Corps (PMC), Philippine Air Force (PAF), Philippine Army (PA), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and the provincial government of Ilocos Norte. Parado emphasized the importance of this cooperation, noting that the province has seen a significant decrease in forest fires thanks to these combined efforts.

As part of their ongoing strategy, the task force will continue conducting foot patrols in forest fire-prone areas during the dry season. They are also providing alternative livelihood options to honeybee collectors, wildlife hunters, and "kaingeros" (individuals involved in slash-and-burn activities), who were previously identified as key contributors to forest fire incidents.

Additionally, various local government units are implementing police checkpoints and maintaining a registry of civilians entering mountainous areas as proactive measures to prevent forest fires in their jurisdictions. Parado expressed hope that with sustained public vigilance and support from both public and private stakeholders, the occurrence of hazardous fires can be further minimized.