Philippines fire bureau reports rise in structural fires in CAR
Iain Hoey
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Philippines fire safety reminder and 2025 figures
The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) of the Philippines has reported an increase in structural fire incidents in the Cordillera Administrative Region in 2025.
The Bureau said BFP – CAR recorded 207 structural fire incidents in 2025, six more than the 201 recorded in 2024.
The incidents led to three deaths and 24 injuries.
Recorded causes included open flame from cooking, electrical ignition caused by arcing, overheated home appliances, ignition of materials from ember or flying ember (alipato) and unattended candles.
Prevention and preparedness guidance shared by BFP – CAR
The BFP said it is continuing to engage communities on fire safety awareness through public guidance.
FSupt. Katherine Albino, BFP – CAR Regional Operations Division Chief and acting Information Officer, said: ” We want to emphasize the importance of prevention, preparedness and sense of responsibility.
“Fire safety starts with you, from each and every one of us.
“Preventing fire is not only the job of the firefighters, it begins with the daily choices we make at home, and at work and in our communities.”
The BFP said prevention tips include unplugging appliances when not in use, checking wirings and replacing frayed cords immediately, avoiding overloading outlets, safe cooking or not leaving cooking unattended, keeping candles away from flammable objects and not leaving them burning unattended.
The Bureau said preparedness steps include installing smoke alarms, planning escape routes, practising drills and knowing “Stop, Drop, Roll” for when clothes catch fire.
The BFP’s guidance links fire prevention steps with basic preparedness measures for households, workplaces and communities.