BFP-NIR backs body cameras for fire safety inspections

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — The Bureau of Fire Protection–Negros Island Region (BFP-NIR) has expressed strong support for the use of body-worn cameras during fire safety inspections of buildings and establishments.

Fire Chief Supt. Rodolfo Denaga, BFP-NIR director, said in a recent media interview that the bureau fully embraces the initiative, describing it as a positive institutional reform.

“We are welcoming it and we’re very happy,” he said.

Denaga said the use of body cameras will help uphold the integrity and professionalism of the organization, with the primary goal of ensuring transparency in the conduct of fire safety inspections and monitoring BFP personnel in the field.

He added that the move is expected to strengthen public trust in the bureau.

One body camera is assigned for every two fire safety inspectors in the region, and its use is mandatory during inspections, Denaga said.

So far, no complaints or concerns have been recorded in the region since the policy took effect, he added.

Denaga emphasized that the initiative ultimately aims to make the bureau more dignified, professional, and trustworthy in carrying out its mandate.

Last month, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) issued a directive requiring the BFP to implement mandatory body camera use nationwide to ensure consistency, accountability, and proper documentation in fire safety inspections.

The policy also reiterates that fire safety enforcers are strictly prohibited from recommending, selling, or endorsing any particular brand of fire safety equipment, in accordance with the Fire Code of the Philippines and the Ease of Doing Business law.

Under the policy, recording begins upon issuance of the body camera at the fire station and continues during travel, the actual inspection, discussion of findings, and until the camera is formally turned over to the station custodian.

The owner or representative is informed that the inspection is being recorded and may also take their own video.

Fire safety enforcers are personally accountable for the proper use of body cameras. Any unjustified failure to record, interruption of recording, or tampering with recorded footage constitutes misconduct.