Philippine government enhances fire safety in healthcare facilities

The Task Force El Niño, operating under the Philippine government, has mandated the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) to conduct thorough inspections to guarantee fire safety in all public health facilities, including hospitals.

This directive was issued during the task force’s fourth assembly, emphasizing the need for a secure environment for patients, healthcare professionals, and related workers.

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., chairperson of the presidential task force, articulated the urgency of minimizing fire-related risks in healthcare settings.

“Together, we must reduce the overall risk of fire-related incidents, accidents, and emergencies, most especially in all public hospitals and public health facilities,” Teodoro expressed.

Immediate action to bolster fire safety

In response, Police Captain Umar Aduca, representing the BFP, confirmed the immediate communication of Secretary Teodoro’s instructions to Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos.

Emphasizing the critical nature of fire safety, Aduca highlighted the overarching aim to shield the public from dangers and mitigate potential losses.

“We must protect individuals from harm and ensure their well-being. We must decrease the risk of property loss, destruction, and financial losses. We must reinvigorate the promotion of public safety,” said Aduca.

National commitment to disaster preparedness

The initiative aligns with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s directive earlier this year for the task force to devise a comprehensive disaster preparedness and rehabilitation plan addressing El Niño and La Niña phenomena.

This plan seeks to offer “systematic, holistic, and results-driven interventions” to assist the public in coping with and reducing the impacts of these climatic events.