Press Release
December 27, 2009

'Tis the season of fire and firecrackers-related accidents
Villar Asks The Public To Be Cautious About Fire Hazards
Efficient fire crisis management needed

Nacionalista Party President Senator Manny Villar reminds people that the last quarter of the year, particularly the period between Christmas and New Year's Day, is usually the time of the year when fires and firecrackers-related strike. Thus, he asks the public to be careful to avoid any untoward and unfortunate incidents.

"It is really unfortunate that every year, the festive holiday season is usually marred by misfortunes brought about by damages or even death from fire and injuries from firecrackers. I urge Filipinos to take caution and all the concerned authorities to be alert for any emergencies," said Villar.

Just a few days, on December 23, fire gutted over 500 houses in Pasay and Makati, which left thousands of residents in the said areas homeless during the Christmas holidays. They are still in fact temporarily housed in cramped evacuation centers.

In January last year, at least P91-million worth of property was destroyed after a 10-hour fire struck a mall beside the Light Rail Transit in Baclaran, Pasay City and about 300 families were rendered homeless after a fire also gutted hundreds of houses in Makati City.

Villar is enjoining government authorities led by the Department of Interior Local Government, which heads firefighting-related agencies to continue enhancing the capability and efficiency of firefighters. Likewise, he urges the Bureau of Fire Protection, the Philippine National Police, and LGUs to work closely together and unify their efforts particularly during fire emergencies and crisis incidents.

Villar has filed a number of bills seeking to improve the management of emergency situations like fire. He has also authored Senate Bill 244 seeking to prescribe the use of police, fire, or rescue or disaster lines and providing penalties for violations.

"Let us all end this year and start the coming new year in one piece and in peace. The momentary pleasure that firecrackers bring, for instance, is not worth it if it would damage properties, injure people's limbs, or even cause death. Please be extra careful and cautious in celebrating the New Year," added Villar.

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