The use of body-worn cameras (BWC) by Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) safety enforcers is now mandatory following the alleged corruption practices in fire safety inspections, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) said on Tuesday, Jan. 20.

In a directive, the DILG said  fire safety inspections are recorded from start to finish as recording begins upon issuance of the body-worn camera at the fire station and continues during travel, the actual inspection, discussion of findings and until the camera is formally turned over to the station custodian.

Upon arrival at an establishment, the DILG pointed out that the fire safety enforcer (FSE) must state on the video their name and rank, location, date and time, nature of inspection and the name of the establishment.

“The owner or representative is informed that the inspection is being recorded and may also take their own video. Establishment owners may request, in writing, a copy of the inspection video within seven working days from the date of inspection through the city or municipal fire marshal with jurisdiction,’’ the DILG explained.

In accordance with the Fire Code of the Philippines and the Ease of Doing Business law, the DILG reiterated that at no given time are FSEs allowed to recommend, sell, or endorse any particular brand of fire safety equipment.

During the inspection, the DILG stressed that the body-worn camera documents fire exits, fire safety equipment and other required safety measures, including the explanation of findings. 

For non-compliant establishments, the DILG said that the inspectors are required to clearly explain deficiencies, required corrective actions, and possible penalties, all of which are recorded.

“Fire Safety Enforcers are personally accountable for the proper use of body-worn cameras. Any unjustified failure to record, interruption of recording, or tampering with recorded footage constitutes misconduct,’’ the DILG said.

After the inspection, the DILG said that the recorded videos are turned over to the station custodian and uploaded to a secured system within 24 hours. 

“Inspectors are prohibited from accessing, editing, deleting or manipulating the recordings once turned over,’’ it added.

The DILG explained that the policy aims to ensure consistency, accountability, and proper documentation in the conduct of fire safety inspections. 

In compliance with the DILG directive, the BFP affirmed its full implementation of the directive in accordance with existing laws and regulations.

“For more information on the Operational guidelines and policies on the use of body worn cameras during the conduct of fire safety inspection, visit the BFP Memorandum Circular No. 2026-001,’’ the DILG continued.