Quezon city: Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla on Monday vowed to dismantle what he described as an organized criminal network operating inside the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP). Remulla said restoring integrity within the BFP is non-negotiable, underscoring that public safety institutions must remain beyond the reach of organized corruption.

According to Philippines News Agency, Remulla identified the network as deeply entrenched in the bureau and spanning multiple levels. His statement comes on the heels of the suspension of Metro Manila safety fire inspectors (SFIs) and the earlier filing of charges against former BFP chief Jesus Fernandez over alleged graft and corruption. Despite reforms, including the deployment of 902 body-worn cameras, violations persist, with at least 10 complaints already received against SFIs following the leadership shakeup.

Remulla emphasized that the campaign is targeted and is not a blanket condemnation. He noted that some relieved personnel may be reinstated, while inspectors from the provinces will be deployed to Metro Manila to stabilize operations.

Meanwhile, fire incidents more than doubled during the Holy Week and in the days leading up to it, the DILG said. There were 170 fire incidents recorded from March 21 to April 5, or a 107-percent increase from the 82 recorded April 5 to 20, 2025, according to DILG data. Remulla said the increase may have been related to the "crackdown" he implemented within the BFP, admitting that the crackdown resulted in the delay of the procurement of fire trucks.

Remulla previously tightened BFP procurement rules after the filing of graft and corruption cases against Fernandez over an alleged kickback scheme in the purchase of ambulance units in 2024.