SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA) – The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in Region 1 culminated Fire Prevention Month with an awarding ceremony held on Monday at the La Union Convention Center here. 

The ceremony recognized BFP personnel across the Ilocos Region who demonstrated exceptional performance throughout March.

BFP-Region 1 Regional Director, Fire Chief Supt. Leonida Gumanab-Rosales highlighted the agency's sense of accomplishment in its fire safety efforts during the month-long campaign.
 
"Despite the challenges, we have emerged with a sense of accomplishment and pride in our efforts," she stressed.
 
The ceremony honored several BFP personnel for their commendable service. 
 
The Medalya ng Papuri (Commendation Medal) was given to 15 personnel from the Tubao Fire Station in La Union for their exceptional operational readiness and public assistance during Holy Week.
 
Seven personnel were awarded the same for their service as part of the First Aid Support Team (FAST) at the Boss Ironman Motorcycle Challenge.

While 17 personnel from the Vintar Fire Station in Ilocos Norte were recognized for their dedication to duty through various fire safety campaigns and activities.

Contingents from the Community Far Auxiliary Group (CFAG) of Dagupan City, Pangasinan and the Toyota Fire Industrial Brigade of Bauang, La Union were also recognized for their outstanding performance at the 8th National Fire Olympics held in Baguio City last month. 

The groups secured sixth place out of 17 competing regions, showcasing their firefighting skills and earning the Medalya ng Kasanayan (Efficiency Medal).

The event served not only as a competition but also as a platform for knowledge sharing and fostering best practices in fire safety and response.

This further underscores the collaborative spirit and shared commitment to fire safety and preparedness within the region. 

On the other hand, Toyota La Union and the Philippine Information Agency-La Union were acknowledged as active partners in all of its programs and activities during Fire Prevention Month.

BFP-Region 1 Assistant Regional Director, Fire Senior Supt. Eddie Jucutan reminded the public to stay vigilant and proactive in preventing fires. 

"Together, let us continue to be vigilant, proactive and resilient in our efforts to prevent fires," Jucutan noted.

The BFP's unwavering commitment to fire prevention efforts plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of communities across the Ilocos Region. (JCR/AMB/SGR, PIA La Union)