The Mandaue City Council has moved to tighten enforcement of fire prevention rules, approving a resolution pushing stricter action against illegal electrical wiring and backyard waste burning amid rising fire risks during the dry season and El Niño conditions.
Authored by Councilor Eugene C. Andaya, the measure directs barangays and key city offices, including the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), Bureau of Fire Protection, and City Engineering Office, to intensify inspections and enforcement, particularly in interior communities where violations persist.
Andaya said hotter conditions have increased fire risks, prompting renewed action from local authorities.
“During karong panahona nga init kaayo, uso kaayo ang sunog. Mao ng atong gi call out ang mga barangays ug disaster teams nga i-review pagbalik ang existing ordinances para makalikay ani nga mga panghitabo,” he said.
The resolution targets illegal electrical line tapping, unauthorized connections, and unsafe or sagging wires—commonly referred to as “spaghetti wiring”—which authorities say continue to pose serious fire hazards in both residential and commercial areas.
Andaya warned that overloaded and unregulated connections in interior barangays remain a recurring issue that can trigger short circuits and fire outbreaks.
The measure also reinforces the ban on open burning of backyard waste under Republic Act 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act, citing health and environmental risks.
“Ang daob usa pod na kay dry season karon, delikado kaayo kay dali ra kaayo mukatay ang kayo kay dry ang sagbot nato,” he added.
The resolution cites provisions of the Local Government Code of 1991, affirming the city’s authority to regulate electrical installations and order the removal of hazardous wiring.
Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (BDRRMCs) are directed to conduct regular inspections, report violations, and coordinate with authorities on enforcement actions.
They are also tasked to lead local information campaigns on fire prevention.
The CDRRMO will spearhead a citywide awareness drive discouraging unsafe wiring practices, illegal tapping, and open burning, while mobilizing community participation in reporting hazards.
Andaya said the initiative aims to cut fire incidents and strengthen community preparedness as extreme heat conditions persist across the city. (VCL)
Photo courtesy of Philippine News Agency
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