The Bureau of Fire Protection – Negros Island Region (BFP-NIR) is focusing on engagements with the youth in raising fire safety consciousness as it gears up for the 2026 Fire Prevention Month in March.
In a press conference in Bacolod City yesterday, BFP-NIR Director Chief Supt. Rodolfo Denaga said this year’s campaign will have emphasis on programs and projects intended for young citizens, such as the Fire Square Road Show and the “Bumbero sa Paaralan.”
“We have to strengthen these programs to have a safe environment. We have to bank on our youth to be fire safety conscious,” he added.
The Fire Square Road Show is the BFP’s flagship initiative designed to promote fire safety awareness, enhance disaster preparedness, empower youth and communities, showcase BFP capabilities, and strengthen school safety programs.
A partnership with the Department of Education, the “Bumbero sa Paaralan” seeks to enhance fire safety awareness and disaster preparedness among students by integrating fire safety education, fire drills, and practical emergency knowledge in schools across the region.
Denaga said they will also hold various competitions for students, such as a photography contest, a short-film making contest, and a quiz bee.
On March 1, the BFP-NIR will kick off the observance of Fire Prevention Month with an opening program at the SM City Bacolod North Block, after a motorcade and simultaneous blowing of horns along the major streets in the city.
“We will also have corporate social responsibility activities such as mangrove and tree planting, clean-up drive, and ‘Operation Tuli’ to engage the community,” Denaga said.
Data showed the BFP-NIR recorded 1,060 fire incidents in 2025, lower by about 40 percent compared to 1,700 fire incidents in 2024.
Subsequently, damage to property decreased by 19 percent, down to P160 million in 2025 from P236 million in 2024.
“Since the fire incidents decreased, it follows that the damage to property also decreased. This can be attributed to our fire prevention campaign. Notable decrease can be seen in Bacolod City. Fire prevention has been given emphasis in the red zone areas of Bacolod City,” Denaga said. (PNA)