Stories of inspiration

RESCUE in Action: Building Fire-Ready and Resilient Communities in Macabalan

Story by Demi Nasol

When emergencies strike, preparedness can make the difference between safety and tragedy. Recognizing the importance of building community-based disaster response capabilities, Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI), together with Shell Pilipinas Corporation, conducted a two-day fire safety and emergency response training for residents and volunteers in Barangay Macabalan, Cagayan de Oro City.

The activity forms part of RESCUE (Response to Communities Under Emergencies) Program, PSFI’s disaster preparedness and resilience program that equips communities with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to respond effectively to emergencies and disasters.

Held on March 9 to 10, 2026, at the Macabalan Legislative Hall, the training, titled OPLAN LIGTAS NA PAMAYANAN: Community-Based Fire Protection and Emergency Response Training, was organized in partnership with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Station 5 and the Barangay Local Government Unit of Macabalan. The initiative aimed to strengthen fire safety awareness, enhance emergency preparedness, and build local response capabilities to help protect lives and property during emergencies.

A total of 39 participants from different sectors of the community took part in the training. These included members of the Community Fire Auxiliary Group (CFAG), Barangay Health Workers (BHW), Purok leaders, the Barangay Peacekeeping Action Team (BPAT), Lupon members, 4Ps beneficiaries, and youth volunteers. Their participation reflected a shared commitment to creating a safer and more resilient community.

The training was facilitated by BFP personnel led by SFO1 Marlon G. Dela Cruz, together with FO1 Jude A. Daayata, FO3 Nikko Causin, and FO2 Leonil Cris Visto. Participants learned key concepts in fire prevention, emergency response protocols, and basic firefighting techniques through a combination of lectures, demonstrations, and practical exercises.

One of the highlights of the program was the bucket relay competition, a hands-on activity that demonstrated basic fire suppression methods while emphasizing teamwork, communication, and quick decision-making during emergencies. The exercise reinforced the vital role that community cooperation plays in minimizing risks and responding effectively to fire incidents.

Barangay Chairman Hon. Saniel Raypon expressed his appreciation for the continued partnership and support provided by Shell and PSFI.

“
I don’t know how to thank Shell for the support you’ve given to Barangay Macabalan. Kaliwa’t kanan ang mga programa nila. May for safety, livelihood, scholarship. Ug naay sunog, nagahatag sab sila ug relief assistance.

“I don’t know how to thank Shell for the support they have given to Barangay Macabalan. They have many programs, including initiatives for safety, livelihood, and scholarships. And whenever there is a fire incident, they also provide relief assistance.”

The activity also supports Barangay Macabalan’s ongoing implementation of its Community Fire Protection Plan (CFPP). As part of this effort, the barangay is working toward institutionalizing the Community Fire Auxiliary Group (CFAG) as its frontline responder during emergencies and disasters, helping ensure a faster and more organized response at the community level.

Through RESCUE (Response to Communities Under Emergencies), PSFI and Shell Pilipinas Corporation continue to strengthen local preparedness and response capabilities in communities across the country. By investing in community-led disaster risk reduction and emergency response initiatives, the program helps ensure that residents are better prepared, more resilient, and equipped to safeguard lives, property, and their collective future.

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