Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Spokesperson Col. Annalee Carbajal-Atienza revealed in a radio interview that 61 municipalities across the country still lack fire trucks and fully operational fire stations.

"These 61 municipalities, mostly in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), Region 12 (SOCCSKSARGEN), and a few in Region 4-A (CALABARZON), are yet to receive fire trucks and activated fire stations," Atienza stated in an interview with DZRH.

However, she noted that this gap was already part of the BFP’s modernization program and will be addressed within the year.

In line with Fire Prevention Month this March, Atienza emphasized the crucial role of local government fire brigades in emergency response. Since BFP operates on an equipment-based system, every new fire truck deployed necessitates the recruitment of additional personnel. With 61 fire trucks already procured, reinforcements will be added accordingly.

Atienza urged the public to practice fire safety measures daily, highlighting the importance of awareness and preparedness in preventing disasters.