A grieving family in Tondo, Manila, has found hope after the tragic death of a fire chief volunteer who perished in a fire just hours after rescuing a dog trapped inside a burning house.
During a wake held for 52-year-old fire chief volunteer Rodolfo Baniqued Tuesday night, Ang Bumbero ng Pilipinas (ABP) partylist first nominee Jose Antonio “Ka Pep” Goitia personally paid tribute to the fallen hero and vowed to provide full support to all first responders, fire rescuers, and volunteers should they secure a seat in Congress.
Goitia assured Baniqued’s family that his sacrifice would not be in vain. Instead, his heroism would serve as a powerful motivation for their group to push for much-needed reforms in the fire service sector.
Goitia emphasized ABP’s commitment to advocating for higher hazard pay, free medical assistance, improved working conditions, and insurance coverage for firefighters—especially for those injured or killed in the line of duty.”
My team and I at ABP Partylist are more determined than ever to fight for the rights of our fire volunteers and rescuers. It is heartbreaking to think that their sacrifices, even their lives, could be overlooked,” Goitia stated.
During a conversation with Rolando Baniqued, the father of the fallen fire chief, it was revealed that Rodolfo had dedicated over 20 years of his life as a volunteer firefighter. The elder Baniqued himself, along with his children and grandchildren, had also joined the firefighting community—willing to risk their lives to save others despite receiving no government benefits.
“We pool our own money for fuel and solicit donations just to respond when a fire breaks out,” Rolando told Goitia.One of the key requests made by fire volunteers is the provision of breathing apparatuses, which would allow them to enter burning structures safely, even when smoke becomes overwhelming.
“We will act swiftly to address the needs of our fire volunteers and ensure they receive the best possible support,” Goitia assured.
He further revealed that ABP has developed comprehensive plans to bring their advocacy, “Para sa Mas Ligtas na Pinas” (For a Safer Philippines), into reality.
As the only partylist representing firefighters, fire volunteers, and rescuers, ABP is leading the charge for legislative reforms aimed at improving the conditions of firefighters across the country. Among their priorities is the passage of the Firefighters’ Welfare Act, which seeks to increase salaries, hazard pay, and healthcare benefits. Another key measure is the Fire Equipment Modernization Bill, which aims to secure funding for advanced firefighting tools and technology. In addition, the Community-Based Fire Prevention Program is being pushed to educate communities and enhance disaster preparedness.
As the nation continues to rely on the bravery and selflessness of its firefighters, the call for better support and recognition grows louder. The sacrifice of Rodolfo Baniqued has not only highlighted the perils faced by fire volunteers but has also ignited a stronger movement toward change—one that ABP promises to fight for, every step of the way.