BFP-NCR is Ready for El Niño with Next-Gen Emergency Communication Platform and Hardware

Super El Niño is here.

 

It crept in this October and will reach its peak progression in December, after which the country will experience a long dry spell, extreme heat and rainfall deficiency.

 

From January to March, the crisis will worsen significantly, with roughly 79 provinces projected to experience full drought. Critical water shortages and severe agricultural damage follow.

 

Only in the second half of the year will the situation ease up with the onset of the monsoon season. Meanwhile the public is advised to prepare for water shortages, skyrocketing food prices, power outages, higher bills and severe health risks.

 

To prepare for the El Niño crisis the Bureau of Fire Protection-NCR (BFP-NCR) conducted a two-day training at Somerset Hotel in Makati City on the operational use of cutting edge communication tools. The NEXiS Command and Unified Platform for Communications and Dispatch (UPCAD) with Push-to-Talk over Cellular (PoC) devices have been integrated into the Unified 911 emergency response system.

 

Under the leadership of BFP-NCR Regional Director FCSupt. Roy Roderick P. Aguto, the regional division initiated the training to strengthen its emergency communications and command-and-control capabilities in preparation for potential El Niño-related emergencies and the upcoming ASEAN 2026 Leaders’ Summit.

 

BFP personnel from the Regional Operations Division (ROD) and Fire Communication Operations Section, including dispatchers and operational responders learned about the proper usage of the revolutionary communication tools that would make BFP and other emergency units respond quickly to fire and other emergencies during the El Niño crisis and beyond.

 

The training highlighted PoC functions such as group communication, live broadcasting, transmission of photos and videos, and real-time geolocation monitoring that lets dispatchers track down the nearest responders within the location of an incident. The new tools also allow photos and videos to be sent through the device, helping command centers to monitor field units, share incident information and coordinate response more efficiently.

 

Chief of the Regional Operations Division FSUPT Elaine Baylon-Evangelista said the initiative is not simply about introducing new equipment but about strengthening operational discipline across the region.

 

“Radio communication should be a fundamental part of our firefighting operations, not just an option. Incident commanders need timely updates, dispatchers need accurate information, and responding personnel need to maintain communication with one another. We are strengthening our ability to coordinate resources, manage information, and maintain effective command and control during emergencies,” Baylon-Evangelista said.

 

According to Chief Fire Inspector Ely D. Timuat II, the PoCs will solve one of the primary problems encountered with the old radios that rely on radiowave frequency which limits their reach within certain districts and dead spots.

 

Far-flung areas in provinces or islands that have no radio frequencies, or when internet and radio signals are down, will benefit from the UPCAD’s (Nexis Command) advanced features. The units were already utilized and tested during the earthquakes in Mindanao.

 

Timuat said the Nexis Command would be valuable during El Niño because their GPS tracking ability can pinpoint the exact location of spreading grass or house fires so fire engines can be mobilized instantly to keep neighborhoods safe. Victims of heat stroke, severe dehydration or cardiovascular distress can also be quickly attended to because emergency calls made through Unified 911 bypass the need to search for specific hospital lines. Because the emergency communication system is connected to all LGUs, city or municipal rescue services can quickly respond to water or heat emergencies and quickly distribute local relief.

 

NGA 911, the public safety technology provider associated with the devices, also discussed technical features intended to improve communication and information sharing among emergency responders.

 

Robert Llaguno, NGA 911 Country Head, said  “The handheld devices operate across 4G and 5G cellular networks, helping operatives stay connected even in areas with varying signal strengths. They have intelligent noise suppression features that enhance audio clarity, which is crucial during storms, fires, and other noisy environments. The system enables secure transmission of images and data so command centers get real-time visual context during emergencies. Additionally, its tiered communications feature allows life-threatening emergencies to take priority over lower-priority concerns.”

 

The Unified Platform for Communications & Dispatch, through the Nexis Command is part of NGA 911’s NEXiS Suite that supports a more integrated approach to emergency communications. Public safety agencies get stronger connectivity, situational awareness, and coordination from dispatch to on-the-ground response. “Those features are important during large-scale emergencies such as those anticipated during Super El Niño,” Llaguno said.

 

The technology is being used in emergency response operations in the United States and Europe, including during the recent riots in France. 

BFP Praises Seamless Inter-Agency Collaboration, Accuracy, Cutting-Edge Technology and Tools of Unified 911 System

Before the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) adopted the Unified Platform for Communications & Dispatch (UPCAD) system of Unified 911 for emergency response, command stations relied on voice-only radio frequencies that were hampered by poor signals, dead zones and congested telephone lines.

 

Dispatchers relied on inaccurate, panic-stricken verbal descriptions from callers and were “completely blind” to what was actually happening at the scene of the emergency. Exact incident locations and changing ground conditions were pure guesswork.

 

This was how Fire Senior Inspector (FSINSP) Jeramile C. Valdez, Chief of Fire Communication Operations Section of the Quezon City Fire District, described the BFP’s emergency response operations before the adoption of the cutting-edge communication tools and technology provided by Unified 911.

 

“In the past we lacked a shared platform with the local government unit (LGU) and the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) so coordinating cross-agency assets like traffic control or city water tankers required tedious phone calls that created critical operational delays. But when the BFP switched to the UPCAD system in early 2026 dramatic operational and dispatch improvements happened,” FSINSP Valdez noted.

 

UPCAD is the Philippine government’s next-generation mission-critical technology for emergency response that integrates local 911 call centers with field responders to deliver real-time data exchange, multimedia communication and precise geolocation tracking.

 

“UPCAD transformed our workflow by replacing guesswork with precise, real-time data that significantly cuts down our turnout and response times. The platform automatically pins a caller's exact GPS location while allowing our dispatchers to receive live text, photos, and video feeds directly from the scene before the trucks even roll out. This instant situational awareness allows us to dynamically map out the fastest routes around urban traffic and deploy the exact specialized equipment needed the moment we arrive,” FSINSP Valdez said.

The BFP logistics head praised the seamless inter-agency collaboration that is the hallmark of UPCAD and the cutting-edge technology provided by NGA 911 Philippines to the Unified 911 system.

“Having a wide-coverage, unified network creates a single operational picture that bridges the gap between the BFP, the LGU and disaster response units like the CDRRMO. The moment an incident is logged, the LGU’s traffic and security forces are able to see the same data so we can immediately clear gridlocked roads, establish outer cordons, and prepare evacuation shelters ahead of time. This digital interoperability cuts out administrative red tape and allows us to request for heavy city machinery or asset support, directly through the platform, while actively fighting a fire,” Valdez added.

Addressing mayors and DRRMO heads in a message, he said “upgrading to UPCAD is not just buying software; it is a vital investment in your city's survival. In public safety, every second spent navigating a communication blind spot or a traffic jam directly costs lives and millions in property damage. By bringing the BFP, LGU, and national emergency lines onto a single next-generation platform, you give your frontline responders the exact tools they need to make your community a resilient, data-driven smart city.”

 

UPCAD acts as the backend and dispatch engine for public safety officials and directly supports the existing Emergency 911 National Hotline (which can be reached by dialing 911 toll-free). “By providing precise geolocation and streamlined data sharing, emergency calls are routed and dispatched to the nearest available first responders much faster,” FSINSP Valdez told LGU officials.

Key UPCAD emergency response features include unified command that connects fire, police and 911 departments into a single communication networks; field technology that empowers first responders on the ground with robust, highly durable smartphones, feature phones and tablets; and enhanced coordination that bridges voice collaboration, digital workflows and mission-critical video to ensure that vital information is not lost during high-pressure crises or natural disasters.

 

The national rollout of UPCAD that was implemented in partnership with the Department of the Interior and Local Government, NGA Philippines and PLDT happened last January and has transformed emergency response operations for the BFP, medical services and LGUs.

SM Reinforces Public Safety Through Nationwide Fire Prevention Month Programs

MANILA, Philippines, April 06, 2026 - Reaffirming its commitment to public safety and community resilience, SM Supermalls, in partnership with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), led a series of impactful, nationwide initiatives in celebration of Fire Prevention Month, empowering Filipinos with life-saving knowledge, preparedness skills, and a shared responsibility for fire safety across its network of most-loved malls.

Mounted through SM Cares, the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, the 5th SM & BFP Nationwide Simultaneous Fire Drill engaged almost 30,000 participants composed of SM employees, tenant employees, security and janitorial personnel, students, mall goers, and residents of barangays near SM malls which was a 30% increase in participants versus the previous year. With the theme ‘Sa pag-iwas sa sunog hindi ka nag-iisa, kababaihan kasama mo!’, the drill strengthened coordination in emergency response, especially helping communities practice life-saving evacuation procedures. In addition, the Fire Square Road Show brought interactive fire safety education to the public across 16 participating SM malls, reaching 8,611 participants through demonstrations, equipment showcases, and hands-on safety activities designed for families, students, and community members. 

A large-scale Fire Prevention Month illumination at the SM Mall of Asia Globe featured a dramatic “Venus Symbol Formation” created by 263 fire trucks and emergency vehicles, with 2,827 participants, honoring firefighters and raising awareness about fire safety and emergency preparedness.

The search for the Ten Outstanding Firefighters of the Philippines (TOFF) 2026 was formally launched with officers of SM, BFP and DILG headed by Usec. Rolando C. Puno as Guest of Honor and Speaker (GOHAS). TOFF is on its 3rd solid year of recognizing Filipino firefighters for their exemplary service in fire safety and protection, emergency response, community education, and resilience-building initiatives. This highlights the partnership between SM Prime and BFP for a safer, more resilient Philippines.

Schneider Electric Champions Safer, Smarter Electrical Design to Combat Rising Fire Risks

MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Fire incidents in the Philippines are often linked to electrical systems that have not kept pace with modern safety standards. Schneider Electric,  a global energy technology leader, is urging developers, engineers, and property stakeholders to strengthen their approach to electrical design by placing greater emphasis on safety, scalability, and reliability as fire risks linked to weak electrical infrastructure continue to rise. 

Many homes and buildings still rely on outdated or poorly designed electrical systems, with overloaded circuits, undersized wiring, and unsafe setups like “octopus connections” identified by the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) as major fire hazards. In 2024 alone, the BFP reported over 1,800 more fire incidents caused by electrical faults compared to the previous year. Rising appliance use and hybrid work setups are driving energy demand beyond what many existing systems can safely handle. 

In response, Schneider Electric identifies five critical elements local businesses, developers, and homeowners must prioritize to build safe and resilient electrical infrastructure across residential, commercial, and industrial spaces: 

1.Circuit protection and system reliability

Modern households and businesses use high-demand equipment such as air conditioners, water heaters and computing devices including servers, computers, or gaming consoles, that need dedicated circuit breakers to prevent overloads and fire risk. To reduce these risks, Schneider Electric urges developers to use automatic circuit breakers that quickly detect and stop faults, preventing fires, electric shocks, and damage while ensuring a safe, stable power supply. Its solutions—such as the Easy9, EasyPact EZC, and MVS circuit breaker ranges—are engineered to respond swiftly to electrical faults, helping safeguard residential, commercial, and industrial spaces by minimizing fire risks and preventing costly damage.

2.Backup power for business continuity

Power outages continue to cause daily losses ranging from PHP 10,000 to PHP 30,000 per day for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in key urban centers, while large businesses incur 100,000 in revenue losses daily, according to consumer advocacy group ILAW—disrupting operations, damaging equipment, and threatening long-term profitability. To reduce these impacts, Schneider Electric emphasizes the need for uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems such as the APC Easy UPS and Easy UPS On–Line that provide businesses with automatic battery backup and surge protection for critical equipment, ensuring operations remain online during outages or power fluctuations. 

3. Real-time energy monitoring

In early 2024, the Department of Energy reported ₱400 million in electricity and fuel savings through energy efficiency programs, highlighting the potential of real-time monitoring for economic and environmental gains. To support similar outcomes, Schneider Electric offers solutions like the Power Monitoring Expert that supports energy optimization by providing real-time insights, live alerts, carbon tracking, and water, air, gas, electricity, steam (WAGES) data compatibility to help businesses detect inefficiencies, control costs, and make informed decisions.

4. Durable, modern switches and sockets

In early 2025, the Department of Trade and Industry seized over ₱134 million worth of uncertified electrical products due to safety risks like fire and electrocution. Schneider Electric highlights the importance of using certified, durable, and heat-resistant components. Solutions like AvatarOn A offer safer, more reliable switches and sockets with child-proof shutters, universal sockets, convenient USB ports, and durable materials that stay secure and resist wear.

5. Scalable, sustainable power

As businesses go digital, data centers must scale quickly while ensuring uptime, efficiency, and cost control. To meet rising power demands without downtime, many are turning to flexible systems that can easily expand as their needs increase. Schneider Electric supports this shift with solutions like the Easy UPS 3-Phase Modular,  which has a live swap feature that allows users to add and replace power modules without business downtime—helping them scale efficiently, improve safety, and grow sustainably. The result is a smarter, more agile approach to powering the digital economy.

“Electrical systems, when properly designed, prevent hazards, protect both people and properties, and strengthen the infrastructure needed to support business continuity, community safety, and the country’s national development,” said Harold Lim, Country Solutions Head of Schneider Electric Philippines.

With more than 30 years of experience in the Philippines and global recognition as the World’s Most Sustainable Company by Time Magazine and Statista, Schneider Electric continues to lead efforts in developing forward-thinking power solutions that build safer, more energy-resilient power infrastructure for Filipino communities.

SM and Bureau of Fire Protection Join Hands to Foster Resilient Communities

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) partnered with SM Prime Holdings, Inc., to promote community preparedness and resiliency against fire incidents.

To seal the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed between SM Supermalls’ chief operating officer Steven T. Tan (representing SM Prime), and Fire Director Leonard R. Bañago during the BFP’s Fire Prevention Month culminating activity at the Music Hall of the SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City.

Under the agreement, BFP and SM Prime will collaborate in the promotion, information dissemination, and managing of fire safety protection and preparedness-related activities. SM has agreed to host several of BFP’s activities that are geared towards educating the public about fire safety, by means of mall events and information and education campaigns. Meanwhile, BFP committed to provide the necessary expertise to train and equip the employees, agency personnel, and tenants of the more than 70 SM Supermalls on fire safety and disaster resiliency.

“As a member of the community, and a responsible mall developer, SM supports initiatives for a public-private partnership such as this one. We are humbled to be BFP’s partner in promoting fire safety, and in helping build disaster-resilient communities. Through this partnership, we hope to teach our customers, as wells as communities where our malls are present, the importance of safety and resilience,” said Steven Tan.

During his speech, Undersecretary for operations of the Department of Interior and Local Government Epimaco V. Densing III said, “The partnership is very critical to us because this is one way for the Bureau of Fire Protection to reach out to the people. SM is now giving us the venue for the agency to be much closer to the people, and this is what we call the participatory governance side so that there can be a partnership between the ordinary people, the Filipino business community and that of the government agencies such as BFP.”

Fire Director, Chief BFP Leonard R. Bañago, added; “Ang fire prevention ay hindi lamang role ng BFP, kundi role natin itong lahat. Kailangan mag participate ang community and private sector sa isinasagawang fire prevention campaigns. Hinihikayat natin ang lahat ng stakeholders na mag participate para maiwasan ang pagkakaroon ng mapinsalang sunog.”(“Fire prevention is not just the role of BFP, but is everybody’s role. The community and the private sector should participate in fire prevention campaigns. We encourage all stakeholders to participate, to prevent fire incidents.”)

“We encourage the people, now that the Bureau of Fire Protection will be present in many of the SM Supermalls, to please interact with them. There is what we call the “Fire Square” – it is one way for the people to experience what they should be doing during fire incidents, and participate in lectures and interactive trainings for them to know strategies for fire prevention and safety,” Densing III added.

The BFP also gave due recognition to Local Chief Executives and other partners from both government and private sector for their continuing support to the efforts of the BFP.