The more than 300 thousand-strong local fire volunteers across the country should become BIDA ambassadors for health and safety in their communities, urged Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos.

“BIDA” or “Buhay Ingatan, Droga’y Ayawan,” is the DILG’s flagship program to reduce drug demand by promoting health and encouraging drug rehabilitation.

Secretary Abalos made the call after the DILG and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) officially launched the BIDA Ka Sa Fire Square Roadshow on Saturday in Megamall, Mandaluyong City.

“Sa lawak ng organisasyon ng BFP na may mga volunteer firefighters, magtatayo tayo ng mga BIDA Volunteer Firefighters sa bawat barangay sa buong Pilipinas, at kayo ang magsisilbing ‘patay sunog, patay droga; sa bawat lugar, BIDA ka!” Abalos said.

The DILG Secretary also thanked the fire officers and fire volunteers for their brave response to fire incidents.

He said: “This is how you define heroes. Mga bayani kayo sapagkat sa tuwing may sunog, habang papalayo ang nakararami, kayo naman sinusuong ninyo upang iligtas ang buhay at mga ari-arian. Bayani ang mga volunteer firefighters at mga bumbero”.

The BIDA Ka sa Fire Square Roadshow showcased a culture of community safety, security, and health. Booths displayed emergency and rescue equipment, and offered attendees a chance to try out activities like rappelling and the use of fire extinguishers.

More than 5,000 participants attended the activity, composed of local chief executives, local disaster risk reduction and management officers, Barangay DRRM Council members, Sangguniang Kabataan officials, and barangay tanods.

Original Article at: https://www.dilg.gov.ph/news/Abalos-highlights-vital-roles-fire-volunteers-play-during-emergencies-urges-them-to-also-serve-as-BIDA-ambassadors/NC-2024-1111