An official of the city Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) is optimistic that the agency will be supplied with new equipment and vehicles such as firetrucks and water tankers after the office requested for new firefighting assets to help firemen better carry out their duties.

Acting city fire marshal Senior Insp. Raul Bustaliño told DYRD Balita that the Tagbilaran City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council is already mulling over its request for new gear and vehicles.

According to Bustaliño, some of their current equipment are outdated and have been used since the 1960s.

He noted that the equipment are no longer reliable particularly in prolonged operations as these could conk out.

Four firetrucks in the city are currently being serviced to have major and minor defects repaired, Bustaliño said, noting that others need to undergo an overhaul.

As taller building have also been established in the city, Bustaliño highlighted the need for modern firetrucks which can at least reach a 10-storey building.

Currently, city firetrucks can only reach establishments with four floors and below.

The fire chief said that the plan was first considered three years ago and he is expecting that the new gear and vehicles will finally be provided as part of the city’s efforts to prepare for possible emergencies.(with reports from Allen Doydora)