The Bureau of Fire Protection-National Capital Region (BFP-NCR) and the National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) on Monday, May 27, signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) that launched the Kalingang Bumbero (Kaibigan sa Linyang Gagabayan ng Bumbero) in a bid to address the rising number of suicide cases in the country.
Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin “Benhur’’ Abalos Jr. commended the BFP and the NCMH for coming out with the approach that will help reduce the cases of mental health concerns.
In his speech, Abalos stressed the need for every individual to be strong and determined enough in dealing with problems in life.
“Walang taong walang hamon sa buhay. Ang tanong kung paano malalagpasan ng tao ang hamon na ito (There is no person without challenges in life. The question is how can the person overcome this challenge),’’ Abalos noted.
With the inking of the MOA, Abalos said that the BFP and the NCMH will now team up to address mental health problems which would focus on prevention, adding that “hindi na kailangang hintayin na lumala pa (there is no need for this to worsen).”
BFP-NCR Director Chief Supt. Nahum Tarroza explained that the MOA is all about the NCHM extending its expertise to the BFP in handling cases of individuals suffering from mental illness.
During incidents of suicide attempts, Tarroza pointedout that the BFP is always called “and being the frequent first responder and rescuer, firemen should be taught on the do’s and don’ts in dealing with suicidees.”
Under the MOA, the NCMH is mandated to provide a comprehensive range of quality mental health services to expand its capacity for research and development of interventions in mental, neurological and psychological services in the country.
On the other hand, the BFP is tasked to save lives and properties and must effectively implement programs, projects, and services that will promote public safety to every Filipino.
Tarroza said that the BFP-NCR will soon come out with the Kalingang Bumbero Hotline service in response to the increasing number of suicide incidents.
Abalos said that the MOA should also be extended to related concerns like arson cases perpetrated by persons with mental disturbance, citing fire incidents perpetuated by culprits suffering from mental illness.