BUZZ BEAT MEDIA

The City of Taguig has elevated its emergency response capabilities unveiling its first-ever Aerial Platform Fire Truck on October 8 at Federacion Drive, Bonifacio Global City. This strategic investment ensures the city is prepared for fires and rescue operations in its iconic high-rise landscape.

Engineered specifically for high-rise and densely populated urban areas, the truck boasts advanced firefighting functions and high-altitude rescue capabilities, providing a stable command platform even in complex environments.

The “EAP71” aerial platform fire engine features an 70 meters articulating boom that can reach a height  equivalent to a 20-22 storey building.  This is designed to reach confined areas, ensuring effective operations in modern city settings. With a lifting capacity of 500 kilograms, the platform is enough to safely carry several rescuers and their equipment. This makes it ideal for complex rescue and firefighting operations in high-rise communities.

Instead of a traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony, Mayor Lani Cayetano and Congressman Jorge Bocobo, started the engine and switched on the firetruck’s emergency blinkers, symbolizing its official commissioning and deployment for operational use.

In her message, Mayor Lani said Taguig is among the few local government units in the country equipped with this type of advanced rescue vehicle. She emphasized the importance of readiness, particularly in preparing for major disasters such as “The Big One”:

“Kailangan po nating maghanda, maging prepared sa ano mang eventuality. Totoong-totoo po ang panganib na hatid ng iba’t ibang kalamidad na tumatama sa ating bansa. To prepare for ‘The Big One,’ I think that’s the greatest challenge for all of us. It’s important for us as a city to be prepared.”

The mayor also highlighted the value of collaboration among the private sector, local government, and national agencies, while expressing appreciation to Taguig taxpayers for their continued support:

“Nagpapasalamat po ako sa mga taxpayers ng Taguig. If not for their commitment, support, and faithful contribution to the city, hindi po magiging posible ito. Our dream and prayer is for this vehicle to be used properly and safely. We also pray for the team who will operate it — dahil mahalaga po sa atin ang kaligtasan ng bawat Taguigeño.”

Mr. Enrique Luis Manuel Jr., Chief Operating Officer of Fort Bonifacio Development Corporation and Director of BGCEA, thanked the City of Taguig for its strong support to BGC’s safety initiatives:

“Kami po sa BGCEA, and indeed sa buong BGC, are proud to stand alongside the city, with a Mayor who truly and consistently prioritizes the protection and well-being of her people. Mayor Lani, Congressman Jorge, and the City Government of Taguig — maraming-maraming salamat pong muli.”

The blessing of the Aerial Platform Fire Truck was officiated by Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Hipolito of St. Ignatius of Loyola Parish, followed by a demonstration by the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) on the use and operation of the ladder truck.

*All Photos from Taguig