Association of Volunteer Fire Chiefs and Firefighters of the Philippines Holds Anniversary and Induction Ceremonies

Wazzup Pilipinas!

With an initial membership of seven fire brigades back in 1987, the Filipino-Chinese civic organization called the Association of Volunteer Fire Chiefs and Firefighters of the Philippines, was engage in more than just firefighting operations. In fact, they respond to around 800 fires and emergencies a year. They are also involved in water distribution during times of shortages, and assisted during aftermaths of earthquakes such as that in Baguio and Cabanatuan, and metropolis cleaning operations such as the NAIA runway after the eruption of volcanoes such as Mt. Pinatubo, and conduct of medical and dental missions in various depressed areas in the metro. They have also participated in rescue operations including the transport of victims of the sea accident of MV San Nicolas to medical facilities.

In 1996, they were the first organization to be granted an emergency hotline (16016) thru the efforts of the incumbent mayor. They erected their own headquarters on a 1,000 sqm lot in Manila Harbour Center in Tondo. They also participated in the parade commemorating Philippine Independence at Luneta.

They are now celebrating their 31st year of continued service to the community. Their membership has grown to 28 volunteer fire brigades with a complement of more than 100 firetrucks, water tankers, and rescue units manned by 1,500 firefighters  and paramedics. Their headquarters are also manned by radio and telephone operato that monitor calls for assistance on a 24/7 basis.

To celebrate the occasion, the organization conducted an anniversary and induction to to proudly recognize and reward their outstanding members, and put into oath their new officers. The well-deserving heads and members of every brigade were given recognition of their valuable contribution of service risking their lives in the process.

The event was held on December 10, 2017 at Golden Bay Seafood Restaurant located along Macapagal Avenue near Mall of Asia complex in Pasay city, and were attended by all the officers and members ofvthe organization. Thus led their guest of honor, Dr. Rosalind Wee,t o joke by asking who was left to answer calls if a fire broke loose during their event. But we all know that they are just volunteers and the job is truly for the government firefighters.  Though many have found the organization to be quicker to respond than the previously mentioned, I guess they deserve a break once in a while.  It was a good thingbthat no fire was reported that Sunday, otherwise we may see some of these dedicated heroes suddenly leaving the venue for they may not be able to resist responding to the emergency.

Entertaining the attendees were Glaiza de Castro and Noel Cabangon who both gave three song numbers that day. 

The highlight of the day was the 1 Million peso donation of their guest of honor to the organization. That amount would surely go a long way in helping improve the firefighters skills and services. It is hoped that with the guidance of incoming President,  Ramon Chuaying, the organization will grow bigger and more capable in fighting fires. But we also hope that they also focus on finding ways to prevent fires so that property and lives will be saved from destruction. Thank you to outgoing President Domingo Chan Chun Bok for his service,  and may he continue to be a valuable consultant and supporter to the cause.

Being a volunteer, may it be as a firefighter, a paramedic or any other public service or advocacy is truly an honorable act. It is very rare that we take action without expecting something in return. Thus we should definitely give due attention to our valiant heroes for their selfless efforts in serving the community. As they say, we should not rely solely on our government in providing the basic services. We should always take the initiaein finding ways to help out each other especially during times of need. And though prevention is more likely the better path to take to reduce the harm, we should also be prepared and ready against unforeseen disasters like fire, wrath of nature, or accidents.

Jacob Jensen Design Soon to Collaborate in the Philippines

Wazzup Pilipinas!

We recently witnessed the unfolding of another opportunity for Design and Technology innovation, exchanges, collaboration and partnerships on Dec. 06 , 3:00 - 4:00pm at QBO Office, DTI International Building, Gil Puyat, Makati City.

What primarily prevents our artists in coming out in the open to promote their works? Many are just too burdened with the fear of havong to face tax deductions.

In the Philippines, setting up a business entity, even for single proprietorship entails getting too many permits with corresponding fees. Fees that could be too much for newly established businesses that already spent a fortune in capital setting up their business address and equipment.

Thus, announcing your services could very well be more profitable if you remain online seemingly just a home-based entity. Expansion could very well be just an option to keep for yourself since you would prefer paying less tax obligations.

If the Philippines wants us to actively engage with Jacob Jensen Design company then they should make it more attractive for businessmen to setup business in the country. Onexwayvis to reduce orvtotally eliminate taxes during the first months or years until the company has recovered their initial funds used in founding their business. We tend to be more open to partnerships or collaborations when we have less financial obligations to worry about. The less risk, the more open-minded we are to invest our hard-earned money. Needless to say, if the government could not subsidize, then they should find other ways to persuade us to invest.

We are honored that the design firm has chosen to venture into the Philippines and has recognized our potential to be worthy partners. Our growrh woukd surely be their growth as well. Many talented individuals would put a second thought in working out of the country if our talenrs could be well utilized and compensated within the country so we won't need to leave our families in search of greener pastures.

Timothy sounds optimistic enough that it would be a crime to ignore his call for collaboration. The offer is too good to resist. But since it would be the first time of this kind, mant would obviously hesitate to take the iniative as a pioneer of such venture. But surely, those who have the guts to become pioneers would reap greater benefits if it becomes successful.

With full support of the Embassy of Denmark, and the Department of Trade and Industry, we would undoubtedly make it big in the design industry since there are many creative Filipinos that could once again put the Philippines in the map as a Design hub.

BGC Holds Fun Activities for the Kids of Taguig

Wazzup Pilipinas!

BGC gives back. Fort Bonifacio Development Foundation, Inc. — the social responsibility arm of Bonifacio Global City recently led BGCitizens and volunteers in painting a colorful mural and brightening up a classroom in BGC’s adopted school, Gat Andres Bonifacio High School. They also spent time with the kids of Taguig (tagged as the ‘Bonibulilits’) for rounds of storytelling sessions, art workshops, quiz shows, games, presentations, and a tour at The Mind Museum. In partnership with Daiichi Properties, such initiatives aim to get the public involved in passionate pursuits that reach out to the Taguig community for inclusive growth and development.

BGC Volunteers created a mural entitled ‘PASSION’ that showcased individuals’ various passions at the city’s adopted school, Gat Andres Bonifacio High School (Source: Sarion Films and LittleMsPrinter)

BGC volunteers spent time with the ‘Bonibulilits’ (kids from Taguig City) at the Mind Museum for rounds of storytelling sessions, art workshops, and many more.(Source: Fringe Studios)

Mr. Jun San Juan, Community Relations Officer of the Fort Bonifacio Development Foundation, Inc. with some of the ‘Bonibulilits’.