Revisiting the New Fire Code of the Philippines of 2008 (9514) in Mandaluyong City: Basis for Enhance Implementation

Abstract

The Fire Code of the Philippines of 2008 was enacted establishing a comprehensive fire code of the Philippines repealing PD 1185 and for other purposes. Despite the new law, there are still difficulties on the part of fire safety inspectors in Mandaluyong City Fire Station in implementing the code which the study revisited. The study focused on assessing the implementation of the new fire code of the Philippines with regards fire safety enforcement. Forty-five fire safety inspectors and ninety-six building administrators were purposively selected in Mandaluyong City and were surveyed in CY 2018. This study utilized the descriptive method of research. Respondents perceived that the implementation of RA 9514 in Mandaluyong City was complied with and resources provided were merely adequate in support to fire safety enforcement. The problems encountered by the fire safety inspectors were the following: intervention from prominent figures; there were no administrative/legal support; and trainings and seminars were limited. Building administrators’ problems included the following: there were not enough fire safety inspectors; inadequate equipment and intervention from prominent figures. Recommendations to enhance the implementation were the following: develop and designate qualified fire safety inspectors; representation by Mandaluyong Fire Station management to BFP higher office; other sources of additional budget; acquisition of equipment and supplies. Further recommendations include: a revisit of the IRR of RA 9514; creation of a legal team; specialized training of fire safety inspectors regardless of rank; observe accountability and strict monitoring of the implementation of the Fire Code.