By CESAR JOLITO III

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) officially launched Fire Prevention Month 2026 in the Negros Island Region (NIR) with a large-scale regional kick-off ceremony yesterday, March 1, drawing strong participation from government agencies, civic groups and community volunteers.

The BFP highlighted heightened fire safety advocacy as the country enters the dry season, when fire incidents historically rise.

More than 600 participants joined an early-morning motorcade around the city, symbolizing a unified regional commitment to fire prevention and public safety.

Serving as guest of honor and keynote speaker, Fire Chief Superintendent Gilbert Dolot, officer-in-charge of the BFP national headquarters’ directorial staff, urged local governments, private establishments and households to strengthen preventive measures and work closely with fire authorities.

He stressed that reducing fire incidents requires proactive planning, preparedness and shared responsibility at the community level.

The regional launch was spearheaded by BFP-NIR director, Fire Chief Superintendent Rodolfo Denaga, together with provincial, city and municipal fire marshals.

BFP-Bacolod City, under City Fire Marshal Fire Supt. Jenny Mae Masip, organized the activities and coordinated with partner agencies.

Bacolod officials also attended the ceremony, including representatives from the Department of the Interior and Local Government, signaling strong local government backing for fire safety initiatives.

This year’s Fire Prevention Month carries the theme “Sa Pag-iwas sa Sunog, Hindi Ka Nag-iisa,” emphasizing that fire prevention is a shared duty of government, communities and individuals.

Following the kick-off, the BFP will roll out a month-long series of activities across the region, including fire drills, information campaigns, safety exhibits, and community engagements./CJ, WDJ