Fire department inspects provincial Capitol building

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Cebu City inspected the Cebu Provincial Capitol building yesterday, July 9, following a directive from Governor Pamela Baricuatro to ensure the heritage edifice complies with the Fire Code of the Philippines.

- Jonnavie Villa/LPM

The move came after concerns were raised over the need for routine safety assessments of government structures, particularly heritage buildings like the Capitol.

Baricuatro personally requested the BFP's assistance, signaling her administration's proactive stance on both fire and structural safety.

"Acting on the order from our Provincial Fire Marshall, maong naa mi karon nag-inspection," said Senior Fire Officer 2 Wendell Villanueva during the assessment.

He confirmed that their inspection, led by Fire Supt. Tito Purgatorio, covered not only the Capitol building but also nearby government facilities, including the Legislative Building and areas near the old Hall of Justice.

Villanueva clarified that while the BFP observed initial findings during their walk-through, they are not disclosing details pending the completion of a comprehensive report.

"Initially naa tay mga nakit-an pero di nako gusto mo preempt among report," he said.