THE Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in Mandaue City has identified narrow roads and congested residential areas as a persistent challenge in responding to fire emergencies.
BFP Mandaue City Chief Arnel Abella appeared before the City Council during its regular session on Monday, April 7, 2025, to discuss the recent fire incidents in the city and emphasize the urgent need for infrastructure improvements.
Abella said that reblocking and road widening in certain areas would help improve access for emergency vehicles, particularly fire trucks.
Abella made the statement in response to Councilor Joel Seno, who asked what the City Council could do to support BFP’s firefighting operations.
Damages
According to Abella, many residential areas in Mandaue are too cramped, making it difficult for fire trucks to reach the actual fire scene.
He clarified that there is no required specific road width, as long as emergency vehicles can enter and move around efficiently.
As of March 2025—coinciding with Fire Prevention Month—Mandaue City has recorded seven fire incidents, with estimated property damage reaching P5 million.
This figure is notably higher compared to the same period last year, which saw six fires and about P1 million in damages.
Abella said the majority of the incidents occurred in residential areas, with faulty electrical wiring identified as the leading cause.
A sample case involving an electrical fire has already been submitted to BFP Manila for further evaluation.
Abella also noted that the BFP has increased its fire prevention efforts due to the ongoing heat wave.
“Personnel have been conducting roving patrols and fire visibility operations both day and night to raise public awareness and keep communities alert,” Abella said.
During the session, council members also discussed the idea of allowing homeowners to voluntarily request BFP inspections of their electrical systems, particularly in areas with potentially substandard installations.
Abella explained that the proposed reblocking measures aim to reorganize densely built communities to prevent overcrowding and allow safer access during emergencies. He emphasized that many fire-prone areas in the city lack proper access routes for firefighting operations.
No fatalities occurred in the recent fires. However, one person died after a response vehicle accidentally ran over them during operations. / CAV