Following the recent LPG explosion that injured six workers, former Davao City congressman Karlo Nograles emphasized the need for a “serious, long-term commitment” to fire preparedness in Davao City.
According to Nograles, “for the past five years, fire incidents have steadily risen, and this highlights the need for more fire stations and better equipment for our firefighters, as well as a focus on fire prevention so that we are proactive instead of reactive to incidents like this LPG explosion.”
“This explosion is another painful reminder that we need to do more to keep our communities safe. We cannot afford to wait for accidents before taking action. A forward-looking approach means building the necessary infrastructure, strengthening fire safety education, and ensuring our firefighting personnel have the tools they need to respond effectively.”
In 2024 alone, Davao City recorded 855 fire incidents, the highest in the past five years, resulting in damage amounting to nearly ₱95 million.
“A forward-looking approach means building the necessary infrastructure, strengthening fire safety education, and ensuring our firefighting personnel have the tools they need to respond effectively.”
Despite the city’s growth, Davao still has only 15 fire stations—far below the ideal 37 required to ensure rapid response. Nograles explained that with 182 barangays, many communities remain vulnerable, particularly in high-density and far-flung areas where fire trucks take longer to arrive. The city also faces a shortage of fire trucks, with only 15 currently operational instead of the 72 needed based on international safety standards.
“More fire stations must be built in key areas such as Maa, Bangkal, Marilog, and Malabog to shorten response times. Firefighting equipment, including personal protective gear, breathing apparatuses, and additional fire hoses, must be upgraded to ensure that responders are fully equipped. The city also needs to strengthen recruitment efforts, as the current number of firefighters is insufficient to operate even the limited number of fire trucks available,” pointed out Nograles.
Nograles likewise emphasized the importance of fire prevention.
“Regular safety inspections, particularly for businesses using LPG and other flammable materials, must be strictly enforced. A citywide fire safety awareness program should be launched to educate businesses, homeowners, and students about preventing fires before they start,” added the former Civil Service Commission head.
Apart from this the lawyer said that improved coordination with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) is also essential to ensure Davao City receives the resources and support it needs.
“Our firefighters do their best with what they have, but they need more support. Davao is a growing city, and our fire preparedness must grow with it. Prevention should be our priority, and that requires real investment in fire safety infrastructure, education, and manpower.”
