Ano names Embang officer-in-charge of BFP

January 7, 2020

As the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) welcomes its new chief, Interior Secretary Eduardo Ano on Tuesday granted Fire Chief Superintendent Jose Embang Jr the authority to run the organization.

“And even you are only an OIC (officer-in-charge), I will grant you all the authority so that you can do your job properly,” Ano said during a turnover ceremony at Camp Karingal in Quezon City.

“I know you have a huge responsibility to fill in but with your wisdom, experience and praise-worthy reputation to uphold with existing support of your family, colleagues, and the entire team of BFP. I am certain you would reach milestones and countless success stories,” he said.

He added Embang’s recommendation to become the permanent chief is on the table of President Rodrigo Duterte.

“So take charge and take care of the bureau,” Ano said.

The DILG secretary told the members of the BFP their goal is to make the organization the primary authority in public safety.

“Our goal is to make the BFP as the picture and primary authority in public safety. And this will all start in each and everyone of you. Everyone should help so that we can improve the credibility of the agency. Every fireman counts. Your actions, no matter what your rank or position is will affect the entire bureau so be mindful of your actuation and practice the highest level of professionalism and integrity,” he said.

Ano also reminded them to have moral courage to shun any forms of corruption and told them to strengthen their internal cleansing.

“We must have what we called the moral courage. For me, this is very important, the moral courage to shun any form of corruption to refuse any bribery attempt or any temptation. Just a simple refusal will lead you to a habit of an ideal public servant. So you must possess that moral courage,” he said.

“And in your quest to improve the image of the bureau, rest assured the national leadership and us in the DILG helm will always support you. We have already started by introducing and revitalizing various programs which aim to enhance the country’s emergency response and protocol and bigger funds for the BFP that will help in improving your skills, equipment and other support you need on your service,” he added.

Ano said with the events happening inside and outside the country, the BFP should always be prepared to face all challenges.

“If we are all prepared, nothing would matter. So let us be prepared, let us have these drills so that we will form this instinct and habit of knowing what to do anytime or every time a calamity or disaster would come,” he said.

“So the best way to prepare is to ensure that the fire bureau is always at its best foot and with everyone on board. I’m confident that the BFP is always ready to take on challenge whatever and wherever it may be,” he added.

For his part, Embang said it is a privilege and blessing to serve as the OIF.

“I consider it a privilege and a blessing to serve as the OIC of BFP as we close the old decade and usher in 2020 with a clearer and stronger vision starting today,” he said.

As we move towards our common objective of professionalizing the fire service, acquiring and developing further skills and responding on hazardous materials and emergencies, we become more committed not only to fighting destructive fires and serving the Filipino people by working together in a whole society approach (but also) to defending our nation,” he said.

Embang said they are aiming for a fire safe nation by 2034. Ella Dionisio/DMS