BFP conducts investigation on viral video of alleged fire volunteers looting from supermarket during fire in Quezon City
BFP Launches Probe Into Viral Looting Allegations
The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) has initiated an investigation following a viral video that appears to show fire volunteers looting a supermarket during a fire in Barangay Pasik, Quezon City. The footage, which circulated widely on social media, captures individuals in firefighting gear taking bottles of alcohol from the damaged Landers superstore at the corner of Belfast Avenue and Quirino Highway. BFP spokesperson Fire Superintendent Anthony Arroyo confirmed the probe, emphasizing that the agency does not condone theft during firefighting operations. The incident has sparked public outrage and raised questions about the conduct of volunteer groups during emergencies.
Identifying the Individuals Involved
Based on the video and the fire safety gear worn by the suspects, the BFP has determined that the individuals are not agency personnel but members of volunteer fire organizations. Arroyo noted that investigators are reviewing the list of volunteer groups present at the incident command post to pinpoint those responsible. Approximately 30 volunteer organizations assisted in battling the fire at the superstore. The BFP aims to verify the identities of the five volunteers involved and the groups they represent. Arroyo warned that certificates of competency and identification cards of those found guilty will be confiscated and revoked.
Potential Criminal and Administrative Charges
Those implicated could face qualified theft charges, as exploiting a disaster for personal gain is a serious offense under Philippine law. Arroyo stressed that the BFP is ready to assist the supermarket owners in filing criminal cases. Additionally, if any BFP personnel are found to have authorized or participated in the looting, they will face administrative cases for grave misconduct. One volunteer reportedly claimed that a member of the Quezon City Fire District gave them permission to take the alcohol. However, the BFP has yet to verify this claim and is treating it as unsubstantiated until corroborated by evidence.
BFP's Internal Cleansing and Policy Review
In response to the incident, the BFP is considering grounding certain volunteer groups while investigations are ongoing. This measure aims to prevent similar incidents and uphold the integrity of fire response operations. The agency is also urging the public to report any irregularities to support their internal cleansing efforts. Arroyo emphasized that the BFP will not tolerate misconduct and is committed to ensuring that all fire volunteers adhere to the highest standards of conduct. The investigation includes a review of protocols for volunteer deployment and supervision at fire scenes.
Broader Investigation and Coordination
The BFP has launched two separate probes: one by arson investigators to determine the cause of the fire, and another by a fact-finding team from the BFP National Capital Region to look into the looting allegations. The fire, which reached the fifth alarm, took about six hours to extinguish. The BFP clarified that the fire scene remains under their custody until a clearing permit is issued, as the investigation continues. The Quezon City government has also pledged support for the inquiry and offered financial aid to affected workers through its Alagang QC program.
Public Reaction and Preventive Measures
The viral video has drawn widespread condemnation, with netizens calling for swift justice. The BFP hopes that this case will serve as a deterrent to others who might consider exploiting disasters. Arroyo reiterated that the agency will not hesitate to impose penalties on erring volunteers or personnel. Moving forward, the BFP plans to enhance training and oversight of volunteer groups to prevent such incidents. The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity in future emergencies, ensuring that firefighting remains a noble and trustworthy profession.