The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, along with environmental and uniformed personnel of the province, have stepped up a campaign in fire-prone areas to prevent grass and forest fires this summer.
Ilocos Norte Gov. Cecilia Araneta-Marcos confirmed this on Monday, noting that joint coordination with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) and stakeholders is ongoing to enforce strict adherence to laws and ordinances, including penalties for violations of forest and environmental laws.
“We have instructed most of the municipalities, particularly the municipalities of Carasi, Piddig and Solsona, to intensify the campaign, and we are closely working with the Barangay Ranger Officers to keep their eyes open,” she said in a press conference at the Office of the Governor.
In 2025, the province recorded eight forest fires, fewer than the 42 grass and forest incidents in 2024 and the 82 incidents in 2023, according to the BFP.
Authorities said that most of the wildfires were caused by human activities, such as burning agricultural waste or throwing cigarette butts in grassy areas.
To support firefighters, at least PHP1 million has been allocated from the provincial government’s 2026 disaster risk reduction and management fund to purchase equipment for firefighters.
“We are thankful to the provincial government for all the support being extended to the BFP. Through the years, we have strengthened and improved our firefighting capabilities,” said Fire Supt. Roxanne Parado, provincial fire marshal of BFP Ilocos Norte.
The provincial fire office is supported by 422 personnel, with 36 in specialized training, operating 57 fire trucks, 11 ambulances and a government rescue vehicle.
By Leilanie Adriano
(PNA)