SNAP-Benguet and NPC equip communities with Forest Fire Response Training

In recent years, the heightened occurrence of forest fires has emerged as a significant threat to rural communities. Dry conditions exacerbate these fires, causing them to spread rapidly, making rural areas particularly vulnerable.

To address this concern and enhance awareness of the forest fire threat in Bokod and Itogon communities, SN Aboitiz Power-Benguet (SNAP-Benguet), in collaboration with the National Power Corporation (NPC), organized a three-day training on Forest Fire Response and First Aid & Basic Life Support from February 14-16, 2024.

Experienced resource persons from the Bureau of Fire (BFP), NPC-Upper Agno Watershed Area Team (UARWAT), and Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) conducted training exercises with simulations for residents of Itogon and Bokod, the host municipalities of SNAP-Benguet's Ambuklao and Binga hydroelectric power plants.

Throughout the training, experts discussed the devastating impact of forest fires and conducted practical sessions to equip participants with essential skills for effective response, including basic first aid training.

Forester Benjamin Kimmayong, UARWAT Watershed Management Chief, highlighted the importance of adopting an Incident Command System (ICS) and Quick Response Team (QRT) to manage and suppress forest fires. He emphasized the negative impact of uncontrolled forest fires on the community and biodiversity and stressed the need for a forest fire incident database and a common operational map.

As per a recent report by the Philippine News Agency, over 20 forest fires have been recorded in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) since January 2024, including incidents in the villages of Itogon and Bokod.

Since January, SNAP-Benguet has been collaborating with local government units, BFP, NPC, and other responders to contain forest fires in the area. Under its technical agreement with NPC on forest fire protection, SNAP-Benguet has been monitoring suppression activities within a 2.5-kilometer area around the Ambuklao and Binga reservoirs, providing assistance such as fuel and food.

Water from the Ambuklao and Binga reservoirs is being utilized for fire suppression activities by the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and the Philippine Air Force (PAF).

Mike Hosillos, SNAP Group Chief Operations Officer, expressed hope that the training would raise awareness and enable communities to take proactive measures against forest fires. He emphasized the importance of early detection and containment to prevent spread, reduce damage, and safeguard people, livelihoods, and the environment.