March 7, 2025 —The Itogon Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) officially launched Fire Prevention Month 2025 with an annual motorcade and kick-off ceremony at Fianza Memorial Gymnasium, Poblacion, Itogon, Benguet, embracing the theme, “Sa pag-iwas sa sunog, hindi ka nag-iisa”
Acting Municipal Fire Marshal, Fire Inspector (FINSP) EDGARDO R REDUCA, emphasized the importance of vigilance during March, the month with the highest recorded fire incidents. “This requires awareness, preparedness, and action,” he said, urging everyone to work together to keep their community safe from fire hazards.
The motorcade showcased the unity of various agencies and organizations following a route that started at the municipal gym, passed through Bua and Tram, made a U-turn at Monterazaz, proceeded via Midas road to Virac, and returned at First Gate going back to the municipal hall. It was led by Philippine National Police (PNP) motorcycles, followed by the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) K-9 unit and the Municipal Local Government Operations Officer-Department of the Interior and Local Government (MLGOO-DILG). Fire trucks from the Itogon BFP paraded through the streets with support from Philex Mining Corporation, Itogon-Suyoc Resource, Inc. (ISRI), Benguet Corporation, and Alphaland Corporation. The event also featured vehicles from the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), a Municipal Health Services Office (MHSO) ambulance, and representatives from Mt. Camisong Eco Park. Additionally, SN Aboitiz Power (SNAP) vehicles and water delivery trucks, along with barangay vehicles and a BFP ambulance, reinforced the collective commitment to fire prevention and emergency response.
Meanwhile, the Acting Provincial Fire Marshal of Benguet, Fire Chief Inspector (FCINSP) JESUS D YANGO, highlighted faulty electrical systems as one of the leading causes of fires. He reinforced the BFP’s slogan, “Saksak mo, hugot mo para iwas peligro.”
Municipal Vice Mayor Hon. Dante Alain Xavier D. Godio stressed the importance of safeguarding residents and responders from fire-related risks. He expressed hope that through continuous efforts like these, fire incidents in Itogon would significantly decrease.
The event gathered representatives from various agencies and corporations, all of whom gave brief messages of support and gratitude. The Indigenous People’s Mandatory Representative (IPMR) Engr. Ernani Pis-oy also attended, reinforcing the community’s solidarity.
Engr. Cyril Batcagan, Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer III of the MDRRMO, praised the initiative, noting that although simple, the caravan left a lasting impact in promoting fire safety.
The ceremony concluded with a heartfelt closing from Senior Fire Officer 2 (SFO2) GARRY ZALDY CALAOA, who presented certificates to participating agencies and barangays, along with tokens of appreciation to the guests. The event ended with a solemn prayer and the singing of the BFP Hymn.
With the Itogon BFP leading the charge, the community is reminded that in fire prevention, no one stands alone.
WORDS | Shayne Ashley Sudiacal, BSU Intern
PHOTOS | Jelly Rose Navaja, BSU Intern
