Bacolod: Property giant Megaworld has partnered with the Bacolod Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (BFCCCII) to establish a PHP45-million modern fire station in The Upper East township here. The two-story facility, which will serve as a vital hub for emergency and disaster response, will rise on a 2,000 square meter lot within the 34-hectare mixed-use community.

According to Philippines News Agency, the initiative reflects Megaworld's commitment to enhancing safety and resilience in the communities it develops. Megaworld Estate Management head Don Earl Caagbay emphasized the company's focus on building sustainable townships by investing in essential infrastructure and services. This partnership was solidified through a memorandum of agreement signed by Megaworld president and CEO Lourdes Gutierrez-Alfonso and BFCCCII president Elbert Valencia. The BFCCCII operates the Chamber Volunteer Fire Brigade in this highly urbanized city.

The completion and operational dates for the fire station are yet to be announced by Megaworld. Once finished, the fire station at the corner of Burgos Street and Cornell Loop will house around 20 emergency response vehicles, including fire trucks and ambulances. It will feature a state-of-the-art operations command center, administrative offices, a lecture and training room, and various other facilities including a dedicated training drill tower to enhance firefighters' skills.

The Upper East is a significant development featuring several themed residential areas, the 26-story Kensington Sky Garden, Bacolod's first Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design-certified office building, No. 1 Upper East Avenue, and the Philippines' largest Landers Superstore.