The Manuel V. Pangilinan-led Manila Electric Company (Meralco) has reinforced its commitment to public safety by joining the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in its fire safety and awareness campaign this Fire Prevention Month.
The BFP has lined up several activities aimed at creating a holistic approach in preventing and mitigating destructive effects of fire, while empowering the public to proactively practice fire safety.
During a visit to San Lazaro Fire Station in Manila, Meralco Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications Joe R. Zaldarriaga (left) assured Manila Fire District Fire S/Supt. Aristotle Bañaga (right) and the San Lazaro Fire Station team of the power distributor’s continuing support to the BFP’s campaigns, citing Meralco’s own initiatives to enhance emergency response and promote public safety within its franchise area and nearby communities.
In its own headquarters, the company operates the Meralco Rescue Fire Sub-station which serves as its fire emergency response center, training facility for firefighters and rescue teams, and a direct line of the BFP to Meralco’s system control so that power can be quickly switched off in areas serviced by the distribution utility in case of fire.
“We remain steadfast in our commitment to support the government in promoting public safety and protecting lives and properties of the communities we serve. Meralco stands alongside the BFP in championing fire prevention not only during Fire Prevention Month but all year-round,” Zaldarriaga said.
Bañaga, for his part, expressed BFP’s readiness to respond to emergencies as he emphasized the importance of safety practices to protect lives and properties from the impact of fire incidents, which statistically increase during drier and hotter months.