Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla on Monday called on the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) to stand with him in a united effort to eliminate corruption and restore integrity within the organization.

Speaking at the culmination of Fire Prevention Month, Remulla delivered a direct message to BFP personnel and leadership: reform requires collective action and accountability.

“Help me clean up the BFP. Help me make the lives of the Filipino people better. Help me get rid of corruption in our Department. It is not only up to me, kailangan ko kayo,” he said.

The DILG chief underscored that while challenges persist, his confidence in the Bureau remains.

“I still believe in all of you. My respect is still there. But you have to understand me. I mean business. I don’t need anything,” Remulla added.

He emphasized that public service, especially in the fire service, is a calling grounded in trust and discipline, warning that the pursuit of personal gain erodes both credibility and purpose, even as he acknowledged the impact of ongoing reforms on personnel and their families, stressing that these difficult but necessary measures are meant to rebuild public trust and strengthen the institution.

Remulla also led the oath-taking of four newly promoted Fire Chief Superintendents: Andrew A. Mendova, Robert M. Pacis, Aldwin M. Salazar, and Edwin P. Vargas.

“Alam ko naapektuhan ang inyong pagkatao, naapektuhan ang inyong pamilya, naapektuhan ang buong institusyon. Pero lagi niyong iisipin na ginagawa ko ito hindi para sa aking sarili kundi ginagawa ko ito para sa Pilipinas,” he said.

Remulla reiterated that firm and decisive action is required to address corruption within the Bureau.

“Asahan n’yo, in the long run, people will appreciate this and understand. Reform is often painful but it is necessary,” he said.