Metro Manila, Philippines – The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Thursday, March 5, said it filed complaints with the ombudsman against Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Director Jesus Fernandez.
The DILG said Fernandez was involved in the procurement of 132 Type 1 Basic Life Support ambulances and received ₱14.7 million in kickbacks in 2024.
The department said its investigation showed the purchase of ambulances in September 2024 was manipulated to favor a preselected supplier.
It recalled that the supplier entered into a joint venture with an automotive company to qualify for the bidding requirements in October 2024. The alleged ₱14.7 million in payouts were on separate occasions in November 2024 and September 2025 during meetings between Fernandez and the supplier in Quezon City.
“Ambulances are meant to save lives. Public funds intended for emergency response will never be allowed to become vehicles for corruption,” said Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla.
“There is no room in government for anyone who treats public funds as personal profit,” he added.
The DILG urged the ombudsman to place Fernandez under preventive suspension to ensure the integrity of the ongoing investigation.
Fernandez is facing administrative charges of grave misconduct, serious dishonesty, and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service.
Meanwhile, the criminal complaints cite violations of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, direct bribery, malversation of public funds, and conspiracy.
