The Department of the Interior and Local Government distributed 84 new ambulances to select city and municipal fire stations in the country to enhance their emergency response services.

DILG Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. revealed that the distribution of new ambulance units is a testament to the government's commitment to public safety, even as he lauded the 34,000 BFP fire officers who serve as front liners in protecting innocent lives during emergencies and disasters despite challenges posed by lack of facilities and equipment.

"These emergency vehicles will further empower our personnel as we remain committed to providing high-level emergency response and rescue services and improve our agency's health services," Abalos said on Tuesday.

He added that of the 84 ambulance units, Regions 5 and 7 obtained seven units each, while Regions 1, 8, 9 and Caraga got six units each. On the other hand, Regions 2, 6, 11, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, and Cordillera Autonomous Region got five units apiece, while Regions 3, 10, 12 and Bangsamoro Autonomous Region each received four units.

Each Type-1 Basic Life Support Ambulance is a top-of-the-line Nissan Urvan NV350 built and designed to comply with local and international standards, not only for transporting patients but also to provide emergency care and avoid aggravating the patient's injury or illness while transported.

It is equipped with Doctor/EMT/Paramedic Seating and a Negative Pressure System that can eliminate at least three types of viruses to keep BFP personnel safe during its operation. It also comes with a two-way radio communication device, ventilation airway equipment, monitoring and defibrillator, chest compression device, immobilization device, dressing and bandages, obstetrical delivery set, infection control, and various EMS kits and supplies.

Abalos also urged local government units to work closely with their local fire station commanders to keep their communities safe, resilient, and emergency-ready, especially with an expected surge of emergencies during the Yuletide season.