The Manila Electric Company (Meralco) has reaffirmed its commitment to public safety by partnering with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) for its Fire Prevention Month campaign.

This comes as the BFP has organized a series of activities aimed at fostering a comprehensive approach to fire prevention and mitigation, while empowering the public to actively practice fire safety.

During a visit to the San Lazaro Fire Station in Manila, Meralco vice president and head of Corporate Communications Joe R. Zaldarriaga assured Manila Fire District Fire S/Supt. Aristotle Bañaga and the San Lazaro Fire Station team of the power distributor’s continuous support for the BFP’s initiatives.

Zaldarriaga also highlighted Meralco’s own efforts to enhance emergency response and promote public safety within its franchise area and neighboring communities.

At its headquarters, Meralco operates the Meralco Rescue Fire Sub-station, serving as its fire emergency response center, training facility for firefighters and rescue teams, and a direct line of communication between the BFP and Meralco’s system control.

This direct line facilitates rapid power shutdowns in Meralco-serviced areas during fire emergencies.

“We remain steadfast in our commitment to support the government in promoting public safety and protecting lives and properties of the communities we serve,” Zaldarriaga said. “Meralco stands alongside the BFP in championing fire prevention not only during Fire Prevention Month but year-round.”

Bañaga, on the other hand, expressed the BFP’s readiness to respond to emergencies and emphasized the importance of safety practices to safeguard lives and properties from fire incidents, which statistically increase during drier and hotter months.

Meralco has actively engages in public awareness campaigns to educate consumers on electrical safety practices. These campaigns include disseminating information on proper use of electrical appliances, avoiding overloading circuits and recognizing potential fire hazards.