By Leilanie Adriano/Philippine News Agency
LAOAG CITY — Fire volunteers in Poblacion, Burgos, Ilocos Norte will represent the province in the National Fire Olympics as they emerged as champions in the barangay category in the recently concluded 6th Regional Fire Olympics in La Union Tuesday (April 30).
Composed of 14 participants, including their coach and team leader, the Poblacion village fire brigade also won in major awards such as Best in Bucket Relay and Best in Fire Extinguishment.
Participated in by the four provinces — La Union, Pangasinan, Ilocos Sur, and Ilocos Norte — it was the first time that an Ilocos Norte village representative won the overall championship.
The 6th Regional Fire Olympics aims to build camaraderie among fire brigades and volunteers and select representatives in the National Fire Olympics on March 2020.
“We are so much grateful to God for this award. Thank you to all of you who gave us inspiration, support, trust and prayers,” Poblacion village chief Joegie Jimenez said, noting his team’s show of unity, agility, and will power in winning the competition.
More than the glass trophy award, Jimenez expressed confidence the barangay fire brigade of Poblacion would be able to deliver what was expected of them during emergency situations.
“All these became possible because of the support of the Energy Development Corporation, the local government unit of Burgos, and the Bureau of Fire and Protection station in our town who were behind us along the way,” he said.
The Bureau of Fire and Protection is conducting the Olympics to promote its programs such as SIKAP (Sunog Iwasan Kapatiran Ay Pahalagahan), BIDA (Barangay Integrated Defense Action), and Barangay Mo Ibumbero Mo.
The BFP believes that through these programs, barangay folks will be able to apply their knowledge and skills in firefighting and save a life should there be any fire incidents in their respective areas.
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