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

“These municipalities, mostly in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, Region 12 (SOCCSKSARGEN) and some in Region 4-A (CALABARZON), have yet to receive fire trucks or activate fire stations,” Atienza said during an interview with DZRH.

She noted that addressing this gap is part of the BFP’s modernization program and will be resolved within the year.

In observance of Fire Prevention Month this March, Atienza highlighted the vital role of local fire brigades in emergency response. As BFP operates on an equipment-based system, every new fire truck requires the recruitment of additional personnel. With 61 fire trucks already procured, reinforcements will follow.

Atienza urged the public to practice fire safety daily, stressing the importance of awareness and preparedness to prevent disasters.