The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in Mandaue City has reported that 13 of the city’s 35 fire hydrants are currently defective or non-operational, raising concerns over emergency response capability, particularly in densely populated central areas.
Mandaue City Fire Chief Inspector Alvin Torion disclosed the findings during a regular session of the City Council, where he presented updates on firefighting operations and ongoing infrastructure challenges.
“Atong pinaka-concern kay ang 13 kabuok defective fire hydrants nga naa gyud sa sentro sa Mandaue. I am hoping ma-address ni nato,” Torion said.
According to Torion, only 10 hydrants in the city are operating at high water pressure sufficient to support fire truck operations during emergencies. The remaining units provide low to medium pressure, which he said is inadequate for sustained firefighting response.
He noted that the defective hydrants are concentrated in the city center, an area considered critical due to high population density and commercial activity.
Torion said the BFP has already coordinated with the Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD) regarding possible repairs, but the utility firm reportedly cited budget limitations as a constraint.
“Naa tay initial talk with MCWD. As of now, wala pa silay budget intended para ana,” he said.
During the same council session, Councilor Jennifer Del Mar, chairperson of the Committee on Disaster Risk Reduction, filed a floor resolution seeking the appearance of MCWD officials in the next session to explain the status of hydrant maintenance.
“We believe that fire hydrants are very important to the city,” Del Mar said.
She said the council intends to clarify whether the city will continue or adjust its partnership with MCWD in maintaining fire hydrant systems.
Torion explained that hydrants with low to medium pressure may take two to four hours to fully charge, depending on water availability, further slowing emergency response in critical incidents.
He added that MCWD has also raised concerns about improper use of fire hydrants, including instances where residents reportedly access water even without fire emergencies, which is prohibited under the Fire Code.
Authorities are urging barangays and residents to help monitor hydrant usage and immediately report violations to prevent further strain on the system.
“Dili man ang fire truck ang mupalong sa kalayo, tubig man,” Torion said.
The BFP currently maintains four fire trucks in Mandaue City, supported by barangay-based force multipliers to augment emergency response efforts.
Photo courtesy of Blair Supply
Comments