The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) is preparing to file formal charges against more than twenty officials and personnel of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) following explosive allegations of systemic corruption. Secretary Jonvic Remulla disclosed that the bureau is estimated to rake in over P15 billion in kickbacks annually from businesses across the Philippines.
Massive Kickbacks and Overpriced Equipment
In a radio interview on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, Secretary Remulla provided shocking details of the corrupt practices. He cited a specific case in Quezon City where fire officials allegedly demanded P30 million just for fire extinguishers and an additional P70 million for a building's sprinkler system from a single establishment. Remulla emphasized that these exorbitant costs were tied to contracts the BFP personnel insisted on controlling themselves.
The corruption, according to Remulla, disproportionately affects medium-scale businesses. These enterprises often feel compelled to comply with the illicit demands of fire inspectors to avoid operational disruptions and secure the necessary permits to continue functioning.
Bid Rigging and Rampant Bribery
The DILG chief leveled even more serious accusations against the bureau's top leadership. He revealed that the BFP chief—whom he did not explicitly name—was allegedly receiving P1.5 million for every fire truck purchase through a scheme involving a friend of Remulla's just last December. Remulla condemned the audacity of the official, stating that all procurement processes for fire trucks and equipment were riddled with bid rigging.
Furthermore, the department uncovered a scheme where individuals aspiring to join the BFP were being asked to pay as much as P500,000. Remulla warned that this culture of corruption is contagious, demoralizing honest personnel and even affecting emergency responses. He noted that some firefighters might hesitate or demand payment before acting during a fire, having witnessed the corrupt behavior of their superiors.
New Anti-Corruption Measures: Body Cameras and Immediate Permits
To combat these deep-seated issues, the DILG has initiated a major reform. The department has procured approximately 14,000 body cameras for fire safety inspectors to wear during their daily duties. Personnel in Cebu, the Negros Island Region, and Mindanao are currently undergoing training for their use, while training in Metro Manila is already complete.
Under the new system, inspectors will be logged in and their inspections recorded live. "For example, at your restaurant, they're now wearing body cams that connect directly to our system," Remulla explained. The process mandates that inspectors document any violations on the spot. If none are found, they are authorized to issue the business permit immediately, reducing opportunities for bribery and delay.
BFP Response and Internal Investigation
In response to the allegations, BFP spokesperson and Public Information Office chief, Superintendent Anthony Arroyo, confirmed that an internal investigation is already underway as ordered by Secretary Remulla. Arroyo maintained that the majority of BFP personnel remain honest and dedicated to their duties.
"We do not condone nor tolerate any form of corrupt practices and remain committed in the performance of our duty," Arroyo stated. He added that the public can trust in the bureau's spirit of service, though he acknowledged it is sometimes tarnished by the actions of a few corrupt individuals. The DILG is set to file the corresponding charges against the implicated officials next week.
