The Lapu-Lapu City Government has been given a strict 15-day deadline to address critical fire safety deficiencies found in its main City Hall building. The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) issued the ultimatum following an inspection that revealed several violations of the fire code.
Inspection Triggered by COA Findings
The inspection was conducted on Monday, December 15, 2025, after a Commission on Audit (COA) report highlighted unresolved issues dating back to the 2024 audit. Lapu-Lapu City District Fire Marshal FSupt. Arnel Abella announced the findings on Tuesday, December 16.
The BFP team discovered several key shortcomings during their assessment. The building lacked a functional fire alarm system entirely. Furthermore, emergency lights were insufficient, exit signs were too few, and the number of fire extinguishers was below the required standard.
"We saw that they have proper exits, but there are deficiencies in fire alarms and emergency lights... What's important is that they have the willingness to comply with the minimum requirements," stated FSupt. Abella.
City Officials Respond to Findings
Mayor Cindy King-Chan immediately pledged full cooperation with the BFP to ensure the city government adheres to the law. She revealed that she had already ordered the installation of fire extinguishers upon assuming office, having noticed their previous absence.
City Administrator Danilo Almendras identified one of the major challenges: installing a sprinkler system. He cited the high cost, estimated between P700,000 to P1 million, as a significant hurdle.
However, FSupt. Abella clarified that because the City Hall is only a two-story building, the absence of sprinklers is currently "acceptable" under the code. He also noted the city's existing plan to construct a new City Hall, making it impractical to install expensive equipment in the old structure.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
The 15-day period is a critical window for the local government. If the City Hall fails to comply within the given timeframe, the BFP will be compelled to issue a formal Notice of Violation. This could lead to further legal and administrative penalties.
The fire safety sweep was not limited to the main City Hall. BFP personnel also inspected other key offices, including the General Service Office (GSO) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Office, as part of their enforcement drive.
