The Manila Electric Company (Meralco) has reaffirmed its commitment to public safety by joining forces with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) for this year’s Fire Prevention Month campaign. With fire incidents rising during the dry season, the collaboration highlights the importance of proactive measures to protect lives and property.
As part of the initiative, Meralco Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications Joe R. Zaldarriaga visited the San Lazaro Fire Station in Manila, where he met with Manila Fire District Fire S/Supt. Aristotle Bañaga and local firefighters. During the visit, Zaldarriaga assured BFP officials of Meralco’s continued support for fire prevention efforts.
“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.
Meralco’s fire prevention initiatives extend beyond awareness campaigns. The company operates the Meralco Rescue Fire Sub-station, which serves as a dedicated fire emergency response center, a training ground for firefighters and rescue teams, and a direct communication link between the BFP and Meralco’s system control. This ensures that power can be swiftly shut off in affected areas, reducing the risk of electrical-related fire hazards.
Bañaga reaffirmed the BFP’s readiness to respond to emergencies and emphasized the need for public cooperation in fire prevention efforts.The BFP has also organized various activities this month to promote a comprehensive approach to fire prevention and mitigation, as well as encourage the public to take proactive fire safety measures.
With fire incidents on the rise, Meralco continues to demonstrate that fire prevention is a shared responsibility, reinforcing the critical link between power management and public safety.
More than 3,000 fires have been recorded in the first two months of the year, causing over P1.3 billion in damage, according to the BFP. A total of 3,044 fire incidents were recorded in January and February, marking a 25% increase from the 2,424 fires reported in the same period last year. The alarming surge highlights the urgent need for fire prevention efforts, particularly in highly urbanized areas.
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