QC fire marshal relieved over alleged fire extinguisher procurement irregularities

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) has relieved the Quezon City fire marshal following allegations of irregularities linked to a fire extinguisher procurement involving a private development in the city.

In a Special Order dated 7 January 2026, BFP Chief Fire Director Jesus Fernandez ordered the relief of the Quezon City fire marshal and designated Fire Superintendent Froilan De Guzman of the BFP–National Capital Region as officer-in-charge, concurrent with his current duties as deputy of BFP-NCR.

The order was issued after the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) received information regarding an alleged P30 million fire extinguisher deal tied to compliance requirements for a building exceeding 20 storeys, located at the corner of EDSA and Aurora Boulevard.

According to information reviewed by the DILG, the procurement allegedly involved a private supplier, with claims that commissions were given in connection with the transaction. The matter is subject to verification and further investigation.

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla has earlier stated his intent to address corruption within the bureau and has reiterated the department’s commitment to accountability and institutional reform.

Makati fire marshal also facing complaint

Separately, a fire marshal in Makati City is facing a complaint filed by his deputy fire marshal over alleged misconduct.

The deputy, a female fire officer, filed a complaint accusing the Makati fire marshal of violating Republic Act No. 11313, or the Safe Spaces Act, and Republic Act No. 9710, or the Magna Carta of Women.

In her complaint, she alleged that she was singled out and publicly humiliated during a flag-raising ceremony on 24 November. She also cited a memorandum transferring her office to the old Makati City Fire Station near the corner of Ayala Avenue and Buendia.

The complainant described the facility as dilapidated, poorly maintained, unsanitary, unsecured, and unfit for personnel use, particularly for a female officer. The complaint has been filed before the BFP-NCR and the BFP national office for appropriate action.