December 11, 2024- The Bacolod City Fire Station in collaboration with the City of Bacolod officially launched its 2024 Oplan Iwas Paputok campaign with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Pope John Paul II Tower in Barangay 12. The event was graced by key figures, including Bacolod City Fire Marshal FSUPT Jenny Mae Masip, BCPO City Director PCOL Joeresty Coronica, and Bacolod City Councilor Pao Sy.

This year’s campaign, with the theme Paskong Ligtas, Bagong Taong Maaliwalas, aims to promote firecracker safety and prevent accidents during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

The program began with a welcome address from FSUPT Jenny Mae Masip. Following her remarks, Mr. Ryan Villaruz, Spokesperson for the Bacolod Firecrackers Association, extended his full support for the initiative, committing to work alongside local authorities to ensure that only safe and legal firecrackers are sold. Dr. Grace Tan from the City Health Office also shared a message, emphasizing the potential dangers of fireworks and urging the public to avoid their use in favor of safer alternatives.

PCOL Joeresty Coronica, City Director of the PNP, expressed the police force’s dedication to enforcing safety regulations during the holiday season. Councilor Pao Sy also gave his support, stressing the importance of a collective effort to ensure a safe and accident-free New Year.

A highlight of the event was the signing of the pledge of commitment, where firecracker vendors, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and the Philippine National Police (PNP) all expressed their dedication to ensuring a safe and accident-free holiday season for the residents of Bacolod City.

The launch of the Oplan Iwas Paputok campaign aims to protect the community and reduce firecracker-related injuries during the holiday season.

(Source: Bacolod City Public Information Office)