The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Region 8 commemorated the 13th anniversary of Super Typhoon Yolanda on Sunday, November 8, honoring firefighters who lost their lives during the devastating disaster in 2013.
BFP Region 8 Acting Regional Director Fire Senior Superintendent Crosbee Gumowang led officers and personnel from the regional office and Tacloban City Fire Station in a solemn ceremony recognizing the sacrifices of firefighters and the resilience of survivors.
The commemoration included a wreath-laying ceremony, candle lighting, water salute, and taps call in remembrance of firefighters who died while performing their duties during the typhoon.
Yolanda, internationally known as Haiyan, struck Eastern Visayas on November 8, 2013, causing widespread destruction and claiming thousands of lives.
Among those honored were three firefighters from Tanauan Fire Station who died during the disaster: Fire Officer 2 Melquiades Baguio, Fire Officer 2 Rolando Cinco, and Fire Officer 1 Felix Miranda.
Their sacrifices are commemorated at the Firefighters’ Heroes Monument, which serves as a permanent tribute to the fallen personnel and survivors of Tanauan Fire Station.
In his message, Gumowang recognized the courage and dedication of the fallen firefighters, describing their sacrifices as enduring examples of the bureau’s commitment to protecting lives and property.
He also acknowledged the strength of their families and the resilience of survivors who continue to carry the memories of the tragedy.
Fire Inspector Oscar Guarda Jr. shared his experiences during the typhoon, recalling the challenges faced by firefighters and communities as the disaster unfolded.
The ceremony also recognized retired Fire Officer 3 Luisito Tizon, whose experiences during Yolanda remain part of the bureau’s institutional history.
As part of the commemoration, BFP Region 8 presented tokens of appreciation to the families of the fallen firefighters and survivors in recognition of their sacrifices and resilience.
The regional office said the annual remembrance serves not only to honor those who died but also to recognize the dedication of emergency responders who continued serving their communities despite the dangers posed by the disaster.
Thirteen years after Yolanda, the BFP reaffirmed its commitment to preserving the memory of its fallen personnel while strengthening its mission of protecting communities from fires, disasters, and other emergencies.
The bureau emphasized that the sacrifices of Baguio, Cinco, and Miranda remain a lasting reminder of the courage, compassion, and commitment expected of firefighters in the service of the Filipino people.
