House gives 2nd reading approval to bill modernizing BFP

The House of Representatives on Monday approved on second reading the measure seeking to strengthen and modernize the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).

During the resumption of its session following a month-long break, the chamber approved House Bill 7406, which aims to ensure public safety through the prevention and suppression of all kinds of destructive fires through the modernization of the existing BFP.

The measure enumerates the additional functions to be undertaken by the BFP, including the prevention and suppression of fires in all buildings, houses, economic zones, parks, and other establishments, as well as the establishment and maintenance of regional arson laboratories and research and testing facilities.

The BFP is also mandated under the measure to respond to disasters, whether natural or human-induced, and other emergencies, including rescue, emergency medical services, hazardous materials, chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive materials.

The agency, likewise, is now tasked to conduct monthly fire prevention campaigns and information drives in all local government units, particularly in informal settler areas and economically-depressed areas.

Moreover, the BFP is now mandated to issue a fire safety evaluation clearance as a prerequisite for the issuance of a building permit.

The bill establishes the components of the Fire Protection Modernization Program, which includes:

• Fire Protection Service
• Force restructuring and organizational development
• Capability, material and technology development,
• Specialized services development, and
• Human resource development

Furthermore, the bill directs the BFP to recommend and submit to the Department of Budget and Management, through the Department of the Interior and Local Government, the revised organizational structure and staffing pattern for its officers and personnel.

The revised organizational structure should include all the offices of the BFP, specifically the National Headquarters, the regional, provincial, district, city, and municipal fire stations, the Fire Training Service, and the BFP Central and Regional Hospitals.

The submission of the revised organizational structure should be done within 90 days from the promulgation of the implementing rules and regulations of the measure.

Following the approval of the measure on second reading, the measure can now be tabled for approval on third and final reading. — DVM, GMA News