By CESAR JOLITO III

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in Negros Occidental will be placed on full alert beginning December 22, 2025 until January 2, 2026, as part of intensified preparations for the holiday season.

BFP Provincial Director Fire Supt. Rodel Masip said the heightened alert status aims to strengthen monitoring of firecracker zones, prevent fire incidents and ensure quicker response times during one of the most fire-prone periods of the year.

All personnel are prohibited from taking any form of leave except sick leave supported by a medical certificate.

Meanwhile, the BFP is closely coordinating with the Philippine National Police and the Department of Health due to the recurring issue of newly invented, high-powered firecrackers often named after famous personalities — items considered dangerous and prohibited.

“There is a strict limit on the volume of polvora [firecrackers] allowed per vendor. Year after year, may nagagwa nga bag-o nga palupok nga indi dapat ibaligya,” Masip stressed.

Firecracker market opens at Pope John Paul II Tower

The designated firecracker selling area at the Pope John Paul II Tower — the same location used last year — is now being prepared as vendors begin applying for permits.

So far, 43 firecracker vendors have applied, although not all have been approved. Once cleared, sellers may begin setting up and displaying their products starting December 14.

Masip noted that initial sales will be limited, as vendors typically bring in small supplies early in the season. The larger volume of firecrackers is expected to arrive by December 23 to 24 for the Christmas rush, and again on the nights of December 30 to 31, the peak of New Year’s Eve purchases.

In 2024, there were six firecracker-related incidents — four in Bacolod City, one in Cadiz City, and one in Valladolid.

For 2025, only one firecracker-related fire has been recorded so far, occurring in Binalbagan.

BFP hopes for safer holidays

With continued implementation of Oplan Paalala and Oplan Iwas Paputok, Masip said he is hopeful that firecracker-related injuries and fire incidents will further decrease this year and as the New Year approaches.

“We are hoping nga magnubo ang mga kaso samtang naga-approach ang Bag-ong Tuig,” he said.

The BFP reminds the public to buy only in authorized firecracker zones, avoid prohibited pyrotechnics, and practice fire safety at home during the festivities./CJ, WDJ