BFP backs DILG's campaign vs corruption, anomalous recruitment
By Chito Chavez
The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) assured the public of the implementation of anti-extortion policy in its recruitment, promotion and transfer processes.
In a statement, the BFP said the agency has closely coordinated with the Philippine National Police (PNP) to investigate alleged irregularities within the bureau.
The statement was issued after Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Juanito Victor “Jonvic’’ Remulla ordered an investigation into several unnamed BFP officials for alleged corruption and lavish lifestyles, which includes owning properties that are not commensurate with their government salaries.
Remulla has publicly warned against common corrupt practices, such as fire marshals illegally selling fire extinguishers to businesses seeking permits.
The DILG chief vowed to implement the use of body-worn cameras for all inspections to deter such activities.
The BFP viewed the statement as a challenge to accelerate its internal cleansing and modernization efforts that are currently underway.
The BFP said that it is also implementing the electronic Fire Safety Inspection Certificate System (eFSIC) to dismantle opportunities for corruption in its frontline services, which provides business owners with a faster and more transparent application.
“By enabling online application, payment and release, the system minimizes physical contact and discretionary power, and chances of extortion such as tongpats (kickbacks),” the BFP noted.
Since the implementation in 2024, the BFP pointed out that the system has advanced and now serves as a digital deterrent against graft.