By CESAR JOLITO III

A surge in grass fire incidents has raised concern among public safety officials, with 88 cases recorded this month alone in Bacolod City, prompting intensified prevention efforts.

The spike was highlighted during the 2nd quarter meeting of the City Management Coordinating Committee yesterday, where the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) – Bacolod City Fire Station presented its first-quarter accomplishments and current fire safety situation.

City Fire Marshal Supt. Jenny Mae Masip said that the rising number of grass fires, particularly in open and fire-prone areas, has become a pressing concern requiring immediate attention.

Authorities noted that dry conditions and human activities are among the common causes of such incidents.

In response, the BFP called for heightened fire prevention strategies, including stricter enforcement of regulations and expanded public awareness campaigns to reduce risks.

The meeting, convened by the Department of the Interior and Local Government, also gathered representatives from the Philippine National Police, the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, and the National Police Commission, who reaffirmed their support for a coordinated response to public safety challenges./CJ, WDJ