DEPARTMENT of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla called on 214 newly promoted personnel of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) to lead with integrity, set a high standard of moral leadership, and actively earn the public’s trust as they step into higher positions.
Remulla delivered the message during the oath-taking ceremony and mass donning of ranks held on Thursday at the BFP National Headquarters in Quezon City.
Addressing the newly elevated officers, the DILG chief emphasized that genuine institutional reform starts with individual accountability, referencing his own 31-year career in public service.
“We have many things to do. Many ranks to cleanse. Many fires to put out. But I ask all of you, before you change the system, change yourselves also,” Remulla urged.
He stressed that personal transformation must precede systemic changes, reminding the personnel to serve as an inspiration to both their subordinates and the Filipino public.
Reiterating his zero-tolerance stance on corruption, Remulla shared a directive he received from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. upon taking the helm at the DILG, specifically highlighting the prohibition of illegal gambling payoffs.
The former governor also warned officers against compromising their integrity, noting that ill-gotten wealth brings misfortune to one’s family.
He added that promotions represent a greater responsibility to safeguard the credibility of the institution, stating his goal for the public to declare complete confidence in the BFP and the DILG.
The promotion batch comprises 195 junior commissioned officers and 19 non-commissioned officers.
Among the commissioned ranks, 29 advanced to Fire Superintendent, 42 to Fire Chief Inspector, 73 to Senior Fire Inspector, and 51 to Fire Inspector.
The non-commissioned personnel were elevated across ranks ranging from Senior Fire Officer 4 to Fire Officer 2.
The ceremony was attended by key agency officials, including DILG Undersecretary for Public Safety Jed Patrick E. Mabilog, Assistant Secretary for Public Safety Richard Thomas F. Joson, and BFP Officer-in-Charge FCSupt. Wilberto Rico Neil A. Kwan Tiu.
