After helping in the rescue and evacuation efforts during the height of the torrential rains that submerged major parts of the metropolis and nearby areas, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) now has a new mission – cleaning up and water rationing.

This developed as Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo ordered BFP Officer-in-Charge Ruben Bearis to deploy his men to affected areas in the National Capital Region, Regions 3 and 4 to conduct flushing out and cleaning up operations, as well as water rationing to flood victims who are temporarily occupying evacuation centers.

Robredo issued the directive as he noted during his visits in areas affected by floods, landslides and mudslides that the streets in the metropolis and nearby provinces are now swamped with mounds of filth, trash and mud spawned by eleven straight days of southwest monsoon rains.

“After the floodwaters have receded came another huge problem garbage and mud, and we need the help of the BFP in the effort to clean-up this mess,” he said.

In compliance to Robredo’s directive, Bearis directed concerned fire marshals of affected regions to mobilize their men to help the flood victims in various evacuation centers by conducting water rationing, flushing or cleaning up of centers, toilets and streets affected by the floods.

“Kailangan na nating maglinis ngayon lalo na sa mga eskwelahan dahil mag-uumpisa na ulit ang klase sa Lunes,” he said.

He said the fire Bureau has fire trucks and personnel on a 24 hours/ 7 days multiple duty who are always ready to respond during fire incidents and other emergency cases, including calamities despite lack of equipment to be used like life buoy ropes, life jacket and rescue vests.

Among the areas heavily affected by the floods are Marikina, Manila, Quezon City, Taguig City, Muntinlupa City, Pasig City, Rodriguez, Cainta in Rizal, Laguna and Cavite. ###

DILG Central News Archive DILG Regional News Archive