In response to the ongoing threat of grass fires exacerbated by the active El Niño season, the Bacolod City Council has taken a proactive stance by passing a resolution urging barangay leaders and the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO) to monitor open grass fields within their respective jurisdictions. The resolution, approved during a recent session, emphasizes the critical need to prevent grass fires, a significant regional concern.
Councilor Claudio Puentevella, chairperson of the Council Committee on Environment and Ecology, highlighted the urgency of this initiative. Citing Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)-Bacolod records, he noted many fire calls in March, with a significant portion attributed to grass fires. This trend underscores the importance of proactive measures to mitigate fire risks, especially during heightened environmental stress like the current El Niño episode.
The resolution specifically calls for mobilizing community response teams (CERT) to monitor open grass fields and implement precautionary measures to prevent fires. The involvement of barangay leaders and the DRRMO is crucial in ensuring effective monitoring and swift response to potential fire incidents.
Recent grass fires on April 2 prompted coordinated responses from BFP Bacolod, DRRMO, and fire volunteers, highlighting the need for continuous vigilance and preparedness. With the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) forecasting the persistence of El Niño until May 2024, sustained monitoring and preventive actions are essential to safeguard communities and minimize fire-related risks.
By proactively addressing fire hazards in open grass fields, Bacolod aims to enhance its resilience to environmental challenges and prioritize community safety in the face of climate variability.
