The Iloilo City Government is set to invest ₱3 million for the renovation of the second floor or mezzanine of the Iloilo City Fire Station at Fort San Pedro, which will be converted into a 911 Emergency Operations Center – Iloilo City Satellite Office.
The initiative is part of the city government’s continuing efforts to strengthen and speed up its emergency response system, providing residents with faster and more efficient assistance during emergencies.
Iloilo City Mayor Raisa S. Treñas said the project aims to further improve the city’s emergency response capabilities.
“Our goal is to have a faster, more efficient, and better emergency response in the city,” Treñas said.
The mayor also welcomed the visit of Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Region 6 Regional Director FCSUPT Edwin P. Vargas, DSC, who brought the design and renovation plans for the proposed satellite office.
The project follows earlier discussions between Mayor Treñas and Fire Chief Superintendent Wilberto Rico Neil Ang Kwan Tiu regarding the initiative. These discussions took place during the BFP chief’s visit to Iloilo City in June, coinciding with the opening of the Unified 911 Satellite Command Center for Western Visayas.
The proposed facility at Fort San Pedro is expected to help enhance coordination and response to emergency calls within Iloilo City, particularly for fire incidents and other emergencies.
The City Government is also considering the purchase of additional fire trucks to further strengthen the city’s firefighting capabilities and allow emergency responders to reach fire incidents and other emergencies more quickly.
The initiative comes as the Iloilo City Bureau of Fire Protection, under the leadership of FSupt. Kim Celisio, was recognized as one of the Top 5 Best City Fire Stations in the Philippines during the celebration of the BFP’s 35th anniversary.
The recognition highlights the continued commitment of the Iloilo City BFP to providing efficient and effective public service.
Treñas also welcomed the assurance from Regional Director Vargas that the BFP will deploy additional personnel to Iloilo City, including newly recruited firefighters.
With the planned ₱3-million renovation, possible acquisition of additional fire trucks, and deployment of more BFP personnel, the city government hopes to further strengthen its emergency response network and improve public safety across Iloilo City.
