The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) assured the public that the selection of the next Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) chief will undergo strict vetting, including multiple rounds of interviews and a thorough review of candidates’ financial records, performance history, and professional track record.

In a press conference held today in Quezon City, Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla said the selection process is ongoing and involves seven rounds of interviews.

“We’re still determining kasi part 1 pa lang tayo. We’re going through 7 rounds of interviews. So maybe next week, ipapakita namin sa inyo yung results,” he said.

Remulla said the Department has already interviewed promising candidates for the position.

“Ngayong umaga meron kaming interview. Titingnan namin lahat ng kanilang financial records, performance records, at nakita namin itong dalawang mai-interview namin ay ang pinaka-promising na magiging bagong BFP chief,” he said.

Meanwhile, the DILG is awaiting the preventive suspension order against BFP Chief Director Jesus Fernandez and has written to the Office of the President of the Philippines, the appointing authority, recommending the official’s relief from post.

The Secretary stressed that even if Fernandez files for retirement, it will not shield him from accountability.

“Tuloy pa rin ang kaso. Retirement does not absolve you from allegations and for being tried for corruption. Hindi siya bulletproof vest para hindi ka makasuhan.”

The DILG filed administrative and criminal charges against Fernandez and several John and Jane Does over an alleged ₱14.752-million bribery scheme tied to the procurement of 132 Type 1 Basic Life Support ambulances for the agency.