BFP puts 31,000 firefighters on full alert for holiday season

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) on Wednesday said it is preparing its forces for the December festivities with the implementation of Oplan Paalala – Iwas Paputok, a nationwide campaign aimed at reducing fire hazards and strengthening emergency response.

The BFP will be on full alert from 23 December 2025 to 1 January 2026, with approximately 31,000 personnel on standby.

“As we are approaching these dates, the BFP will be conducting inspections in places of assembly, pre-fire planning, community information drive campaigns, and emergency medical services,” it said in a statement sent to the Daily Tribune.

“The public is advised to be vigilant of the following top causes of fire: (1) Electrical – Short Circuits, Overloading; and (2) Open Flame (ex. Burning of wastes, open-flame cooking). Kitchen fires also have the tendency to occur more often during this season. Fires caused by fireworks and pyrotechnics have experienced a sharp rise this year, from 31 incidents in 2024 to a running total of 111 (as of December 3) for 2025,” it added.

The BFP recommended the use of LED Christmas lights bearing the Philippine Standard (PS) Quality and Safety Mark and Import Commodity Clearance (ICC). It also reminded the public that while firecrackers are part of holiday traditions, their use is strictly regulated under Executive Order 28, which limits legal fireworks to designated Community Fireworks Display Areas.

To ensure safety, the agency will preposition fire trucks and personnel near these designated zones.

Nevertheless, the BFP strongly encouraged families to avoid using firecrackers altogether.

“Our mission is clear: protect every community through proactive prevention, rapid response, and effective coordination,” BFP Chief Fire Director Jesus P. Fernandez said.

“OPLAN PAALALA: Iwas Paputok ensures that all our units are fully prepared so that Filipino families can celebrate the season safely and without fear,” he added.

In case of fire, medical, or other emergencies, the BFP reminded the public to call the Unified Emergency Hotline 911.