162 new BFP recruits sign covenant vs slot-for-sale practice

By Connie Calipay

LEGAZPI CITY --- A total of 162 newly absorbed Fire Officer 1 personnel of the Bureau of Fire Protection-Bicol (BFP-5) recited and signed a covenant rejecting the slot-for-sale practice during their oathtaking ceremony in Ligao City, Albay on Tuesday.

BFP-5 Regional Director Fire Chief Superintendent Junito Maslang said the covenant was part of the internal cleansing efforts being pursued by the agency under the direction of Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla.

“Our secretary is very much into the internal cleansing of our organization,” he added.

He said Remulla has directed that the investigation into the matter will continue. He warned the new firefighters that their signed commitment would carry consequences if an investigation later found them involved in prohibited transactions.

Under the covenant, the recruits affirmed that they did not give, offer, promise or agree to give money, gifts, favors, services or other consideration in exchange for a recruitment slot, position, appointment, or any undue advantage.

They also declared that they had not solicited, negotiated or entered into any agreement involving the sale, purchase, or reservation of a recruitment slot.

The recruits rejected the notion that a position in the BFP could be bought, sold or obtained through connections, money, influence or personal favors.

They likewise pledged to protect the integrity of the recruitment process and uphold fairness, transparency and equal opportunity for all applicants.

As part of their collective pledge, the recruits declared “walang bayad ang pagpasok sa (there is no fee to make it to) BFP Region 5.”

Maslang reminded the recruits that joining the BFP marks the beginning of greater responsibility.

“Being a firefighter is not just about wearing a uniform. It means accepting a duty that requires courage, discipline, integrity, sacrifice and compassion to your fellowmen,” he said.

He said the recruits underwent a long and difficult recruitment and selection process, including assessments of their physical, mental, and emotional readiness. (PNA)

FIRE OFFICERS. The 162 newly appointed Fire Officer 1 personnel of the Bureau of Fire Protection in Bicol, together with officials, show the signed covenant rejecting the slot-for-sale practice during their oathtaking ceremony in Ligao City, Albay on Tuesday (Sept. 1, 2026). The officers declared that they had not solicited, negotiated or entered into any agreement involving the sale, purchase or reservation of a recruitment slot. (Photo courtesy of BFP-5)