ILOILO City — All Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) personnel across Western Visayas will be placed on full alert beginning October 30 as authorities brace for potential fires, medical emergencies and other incidents during the peak observance of All Saints’ Day (Nov. 1) and All Souls’ Day (Nov. 2).
The regionwide Code Red alert, which will remain in effect until November 3, requires 100 percent personnel attendance and round-the-clock readiness at fire stations and designated deployment areas.
BFP Region 6 said the heightened emergency preparedness measures would cover 219 strategic locations, including cemeteries, churches, seaports and public transportation terminals, where large crowds are expected to converge.
A total of 1,824 firefighters and emergency responders, supported by 156 fire trucks and other specialized rescue vehicles, will be mobilized throughout the region.
The bureau initially implemented Code Blue on October 28 and 29, requiring at least 50 percent of its personnel to be on duty or standby while emergency operations centers activate monitoring and response mechanisms.
During that period, fire suppression teams and First Aid Service Teams (FAST) were positioned in strategic public areas, while roving patrols and fire prevention inspections were intensified.
The alert level will be elevated to Code Red this October 30, requiring all personnel to report to their assigned posts and maintain continuous operational readiness until November 3.
Of the 1,824 personnel scheduled for deployment, 1,008 will handle fire suppression operations, 369 will provide emergency medical services, 108 will be assigned to special rescue operations, and 337 will conduct fire safety inspections.
To reinforce these operations, BFP-6 will deploy 156 fire trucks, two rescue trucks, 23 ambulances, 39 FAST motorcycles and two service vehicles across Western Visayas.
The bureau will also strengthen coordination with other national government agencies and force multipliers to facilitate the immediate reporting of emergencies and the prompt dispatch of response units through the Unified Emergency Hotline 911.
Meanwhile, BFP-6 reminded residents to exercise caution against household fire hazards, particularly when leaving their homes to visit cemeteries or travel during the holiday observance.
The public was advised to avoid overloading electrical circuits, inspect electrical wiring for damage, and ensure that liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders and connections are free from leaks and properly ventilated.
The bureau emphasized that heightened emergency preparedness must be complemented by public vigilance and responsible fire safety practices.
“As we remember our departed loved ones, let us remain vigilant and prioritize the safety of our families and communities. Together, let us ensure a safe, orderly, and fire-safe Undas 2026,” BFP-6 said./PN
