BFP shake-up sparks ‘padrino’ controversy

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) is under scrutiny following the recent reassignment of two city fire marshals, allegedly influenced by a “padrino” system, bypassing Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla’s directives.​

A special order dated April 22, issued by BFP Fire Chief Supt. Manuel Manuel, announced that Quezon City Fire Marshal Sr. Supt. Flor-Ian Guerrero would be reassigned to head the CAMANAVA (Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas and Valenzuela) Fire District. He is to be replaced by Sr. Supt. Rodrigo Reyes, currently serving in the same capacity.​

Sources within the BFP provided the DAILY TRIBUNE with a recommendation letter from Deputy Executive Secretary for General Administration Vincent Bainto, addressed to Secretary Remulla, justifying Reyes’ reassignment. This move raises concerns, especially considering the election ban on government personnel transfers.​

Insiders claim that BFP higher-ups are eyeing the Quezon City Fire Marshal position due to its significant logistical support and financial incentives. “It’s a lucrative post,” one source remarked.​

Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, upon learning of the planned reassignment, expressed her satisfaction with Guerrero’s performance. On 10 March, she wrote to BFP National Capital Region Chief, Chief Supt. Nahum Tarroza, recommending Guerrero’s retention.​

However, on 10 April, a special order relieving Tarroza was issued by then BFP National Chief Officer-in-Charge, Chief Supt. Jesus Fernandez, citing a recommendation from the Committee on Decorum and Investigation. The following day, Fernandez nullified the relief order, stating that Tarroza was availing of Light Duty Status in relation to his compulsory retirement.​

BFP personnel, speaking anonymously for fear of reprisal, allege that the reassignments are part of a larger scheme to install compliant officials. “Anyone who gets in their way will be dealt with drastically, just to put in their own people who will obey their Standard Operating Procedure,” one fireman stated.​

The “SOP” in question reportedly involves substantial financial transactions, including P300,000 to P500,000 for securing the position of Quezon City Fire Marshal, in addition to P100,000 for BFP higher officials.​

Secretary Remulla has previously warned against such corrupt practices. In February, he cautioned BFP personnel against selling fire extinguishers to business owners securing fire safety clearances, stating, “If you encounter this, report it to me immediately, and I will remove them on the spot.

The BFP’s actions and the alleged “padrino” system continue to raise questions about transparency and accountability within the agency.