03/12/2025
DILG-BFP: Intensified Fire Safety for the Coming Holidays
QUEZON CITY - The Bureau of Fire Protection readies its forces for the upcoming December festivities with the implementation of Oplan Paalala - Iwas Paputok, a nationwide intensified campaign for the reduction of fire hazards and mobilization of emergency response.
The BFP will be on Full Alert from December 23, 2025 to January 1, 2026 with approximately 31,000 personnel on standby, As we are approaching these dates, the BFP will be conducting inspections in places of assembly, pre-fire planning, community information drive campaigns, and emergency medical services.
The public is advised to be vigilant of the following top causes of fire: (1) Electrical - Short Circuits, Overloading; and (2) Open Flame (ex. Burning of wastes, open-flame cooking). Kitchen fires also have the tendency to occur more often during this season. Fires caused by fireworks and pyrotechnics have experienced a sharp rise this year, from 31 incidents in 2024 to a running total of 111 (as of December 3) for 2025.
The BFP recommends the use of LED Christmas Lights bearing the Philippine Standard (PS) Quality and/or Safety Mark and Import Commodity Clearance (ICC). While the firecrackers and pyrotechnics come with the festivities, the BFP works in close coordination with the LGUs and the Philippine National Police in the strict implementation of Executive Order 28, regulating the use of legal firecrackers in designated Community Fireworks Display Areas only. The BFP will be prepositioning its fire trucks and personnel near these areas.
Nevertheless, the BFP strongly encourages everybody to avoid using firecrackers.
“Our mission is clear: protect every community through proactive prevention, rapid response, and effective coordination,” BFP Chief, Fire Director Jesus P Fernandez mentions in a statement. “OPLAN PAALALA: Iwas Paputok ensures that all our units are fully prepared so that Filipino families can celebrate the season safely and without fear.”
In case of fire, medical, and other emergencies, call the Unified Emergency Hotline 911. # # #
