The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) is investigating a looting incident that occurred at a supermarket in Quezon City on Wednesday, Jan. 28, shortly after firefighters extinguished a blaze at the establishment.
In a video that went viral the same day, a firefighter was seen searching through the rubble of the damaged structure.
The individual was observed pulling out an undamaged bottle of liquor and then concealing it inside his Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
The BFP confirmed the incident but clarified that it was not committed by one of their personnel, but rather by a member of a fire volunteer group.
BFP spokesperson Fire Superintendent Anthony Arroyo explained that the PPE worn by the individual does not match the agency's standard-issue design.
He said the BFP is working to verify the identity of the individuals involved in the incident as well as the fire volunteer group they represent.
Arroyo also warned against similar actions, stating that such behavior would result in the confiscation of identification cards (IDs) and the revocation of Certificates of Competency.
He added that the BFP is prepared to assist the supermarket owners in filing theft charges against those responsible.