The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has released a total of PHP2.880 billion to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) for the purchase of nearly 300 firetrucks and emergency vehicles in line with its ongoing modernization efforts.

Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman approved the release of the Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) for the funding on May 10, 2024, the DBM said in a news release Monday.

The allocation will be used for the acquisition of 154 firetrucks, three collapsed structure and rescue trucks, and 132 ambulances.

“We understand how crucial BFP’s responsibilities are during emergency response and fire incidents. We owe it to them to support their ongoing capability enhancement efforts so they can effectively perform their mandate,” Pangandaman said.

The release of the funding is in line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to continuously capacitate the fire bureau, she added.

The amount is chargeable against the balance of the BFP’s 80 percent share from Fire Code revenues pursuant to Republic Act No. 9514. (PNA)