Bong Go pushes BFP modernization
SEN. Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go has stressed that the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) must continue its efforts to modernize and enhance its ranks by acquiring more fire trucks and equipment to be given especially to remote areas in the country.
Go made the remark during the ceremonial turnover at the Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo in Quezon City of the recently procured equipment of the BFP, including 84 units of 1,000 gallons capacity fire trucks, five units of aerial ladder and three units of rescue trucks to be distributed by BFP to various local government units ( LGUs) around the country.
Last Feb. 11, 2020, the senator joined President Rodrigo Duterte in the turnover of 74 fire trucks.
The senator also continues to provide aid to fire victims in different parts of the country.
As vice chairman of the Senate Committee on Peace and Order and as a main advocate of fire protection modernization initiatives, one of Go’s priority bills is Senate Bill 204, which is now consolidated under Committee Report 111 or the “BFP Modernization Act of 2020.”
The measure is currently undergoing a period of interpellation in the Senate. The bill aims to ensure the hiring of more personnel, acquisition of modern fire equipment and the conduct of training for firefighters of the BFP.
The bill will also empower local communities in preventing fire incidents by mandating the BFP to conduct monthly fire prevention campaigns and information drives in all LGUs, especially in vulnerable areas.
Go also said that he and the President fully support the country’s fire personnel, citing the government’s recent effort to increase the salaries and promote the welfare of the military and uniformed personnel.
The lawmaker added he supports the President’s position of arming BFP personnel so they can help in the fight against criminality.
In addition to fire trucks and other modern equipment, Go also said that he was coordinating with BFP officials, government finance managers and concerned agencies on how to also provide additional ambulance units to the BFP, which can be used especially during national emergencies since its personnel are well-trained frontliners.