Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 10) — President Rodrigo Duterte on Friday signed into law a bill that aims to modernize the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).
Republic Act No. 11589 is seen to expand the powers and functions of the bureau – including establishing regional fire laboratories, research and testing facilities, and acquiring modern fire equipment.
The measure was earlier put into the spotlight after some lawmakers raised concerns over its provision allowing firefighters to carry firearms.
But Duterte himself defended the bill, saying this will benefit the personnel on the frontlines.
“In the mind of some, bakit mo bigyan ng baril ang mga bumbero eh sunog lang ang kalaban niyan (Why would you give guns to the firemen when fire is their only opponent?) You know, the organization itself and the individual bumbero (fireman), they are exposed to a fraught of so many dangers. One is that you die while fighting the fire,” the President said during the ceremonial signing event.
“I am therefore confident that the passage of the [BFP] Modernization Act will help boost the morale, efficiency, responsiveness and professionalism of the BFP in realizing their mandate,” he added.
