BFP AIMS FOR GLOBAL USAR ACCREDITATION WITH UNIFIED STANDARDS

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) is pushing for unified standards and upgraded coordination among response agencies to strengthen the Philippines’ search and rescue (SAR) capabilities and support its bid for international Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) accreditation.

On February 5, the BFP led a workshop setting minimum standards for flood response, light and medium USAR teams, and the certification and uniform requirements for accredited units.

The event involved multiple agencies, including the Philippine Coast Guard, PNP-SAF, AFP units, DOH, OCD, and local disaster offices, to improve national coordination and readiness for large-scale disasters.

BFP officials emphasized that disaster preparedness begins at the individual level and highlighted the bureau’s expanded role under the BFP Modernization Act.

With its 24/7 operations, the BFP now provides fire suppression, EMS, HAZMAT response, SAR, and humanitarian assistance nationwide.

Source: PhilNews24 | February 7, 2026