The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) admitted that its ongoing anti-corruption investigation into the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) has affected the delayed delivery of new fire trucks for the agency.
In a press briefing, DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla said the probe has impacted the procurement process for the vehicles.
Remulla, however, assured that the purchased fire trucks are expected to begin arriving within the year.
It can be recalled that former BFP chief Jesus Fernandez was removed from his post after facing administrative and criminal charges before the Office of the Ombudsman over alleged ₱14.752 million in kickbacks linked to ambulance deals.
His duties were assumed by Fire Chief Superintendent Wilberto Rico Neil Ang Kwan Tiu, who became officer-in-charge in March.
Following his takeover, Tiu ordered the relief of all safety inspectors in Metro Manila as part of efforts to address the alleged kickback scheme within the BFP.
(PHOTO COURTESY: DILG | screengrab)
