With the strong advocacy of “For A Safer Philippines,” the “Ang Bumbero ng Pilipinas (ABP)” party-list participates in the annual Fire Prevention Month celebration held throughout March.
This year’s theme is “Pag-iwas. Sa Sunog, Hindi ka Nag-iisa” at “Para Sa Mas Ligtas Na Pinas.”
The ABP party-list will continue to conduct free training for every community and family on proper preparedness and quick response to emergencies such as fires, earthquakes, floods, and other calamities through their tours in various parts of the country.
“Kailangang magkakabuklod ang bawat Pilipino sa pagtugon na may sapat na kaalaman at kahandaan sa mga kalamidad (We need all Filipinos to unite in responding with enough knowledge and preparedness in facing disasters),” said ABP first nominee Jose Antonio “Ka Pep” Goitia.
During their visits, Goitia emphasized that the group teaches emergency response drills and proper use of fire extinguishers.
“It’s safer when we are always prepared. The ABP and its members are fearless and relentless in providing services at any time. Ready to respond to all emergencies,” Goitia added.
The ABP aims to provide unparalleled services in saving lives through a coalition of firefighters, fire rescuers, and volunteers.
What they do is considered an “apostolic work” because of the imminent danger and the potential risks to their lives when responding to disasters, especially fires, Goitia passionately stated.
In connection with this, the ABP party-list seeks to advocate for more benefits, insurance, and medical assistance for its members, as they currently receive minimal allowances and no salaries for the services they provide to the public, despite being considered the unsung heroes of fire incidents.
With the continuous support they are receiving, Goitia believes that ABP will continue to rise in surveys and eventually break into the Top 10, due to the party-list’s noble goal of making the Philippines a safer place.
It is worth noting that ABP, including Ka Pep Goitia, Lenin Bacud, Jose Mari Antonio Goitia, Carl Gene Moreno Plantado, and Howie Quimzon Manga, reached the 14th spot in a survey conducted from February 11-14 by Tangere, while ranking between 24th and 25th in a survey by Octa Research, a trusted independent, non-profit public research organization.
“Matibay ang kompyansya ko na magtatagumpay kami dahil sa suporta ng mga Pilipino na naniniwala sa kasabihan ng mga matatanda na Manakawan ka na, huwag ka lang masusunugan (I have strong confidence that we will succeed because of the support of the Filipinos who believe in the old saying: you can be robbed, but just don’t be burned),’” Goitia stressed.