Task Force El Niño orders BFP to ensure fire safety of public health facilities

The government's Task Force El Niño ordered the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) to inspect and ensure the fire safety of all public hospitals as well as all public health facilities.

During the presidential task force's fourth meeting, Chairperson and Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. said the BFP should ensure a safe environment for everyone, especially for those seeking healthcare services, including the medical, healthcare service, and related professionals and workers.

“Together, we must reduce the overall risk of fire-related incidents, accidents, and emergencies, most especially in all public hospitals and public health facilities,” Teodoro said in a press release.

Police Captain Umar Aduca, who represented the BFP during the Task Force El Niño meeting, said they would immediately convey Secretary Teodoro's guidance to Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos as fire safety was of paramount importance to preserve lives and protect property.

“We must protect individuals from harm and ensure their well-being. We must decrease the risk of property loss, destruction, and financial losses. We must reinvigorate the promotion of public safety,” Aduca said.

Early this year, President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. directed the task force to develop a comprehensive disaster preparedness and rehabilitation plan for El Niño and La Niña to provide “systematic, holistic, and results-driven interventions” to help the public cope and minimize their devastating effects. — DVM, GMA Integrated News