REVISED FIRE CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES OF 2008

Case Overview and Summary

Summary of the Revised Fire Code of the Philippines of 2008 (Republic Act No. 9514):

Policy and Objectives (Section 2):
- Ensure public safety and promote economic development through fire prevention and suppression.
- Enforce laws and regulations for adherence to fire prevention and safety measures.
- Promote professionalization of the fire service.

Definitions (Section 3):
- Defines various terms related to fire safety, hazardous materials, operations, and constructions.

Applicability (Section 4):
- The Fire Code applies to all persons, private and public buildings, facilities, or structures.

Enforcement Authority (Section 5):
- The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) under the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) is responsible for administering and enforcing the Fire Code.
- The BFP is authorized to:
    - Issue implementing rules, regulations, standards, fees, and penalties.
    - Reorganize the BFP as necessary.
    - Support and assist fire volunteers, practitioners, and organizations.
    - Enter into agreements for acquiring fire equipment, supplies, and services.
    - Coordinate with other agencies for fire prevention and safety.
    - Conduct inspections and issue orders for compliance.
    - Require submission of plans and specifications for compliance.
    - Issue stop work orders for violations.

Technical Staff (Section 6):
- The BFP shall constitute a technical staff of qualified persons knowledgeable in fire prevention, safety, and suppression.

Inspections, Safety Measures, and Constructions (Section 7):
- Owners, administrators, or occupants shall comply with the following:
    - Fire safety inspections as a prerequisite for permits and licenses. (Section 7a)
    - Safety measures for hazardous materials and operations. (Sections 7b and 7c)
    - Fire safety constructions, protective systems, and warning systems. (Section 7d)

Prohibited Acts (Section 8):
- Lists various prohibited acts related to obstructing exits, fire lanes, fire equipment, and fire service operations.

Violations, Penalties, and Abatement (Sections 9-11):
- Procedures for issuing notices, orders for compliance, and abatement of fire hazards.
- Administrative fines up to P50,000 for individuals and closure/stoppage of operations. (Section 11.1a)
- Imprisonment of 6 months to 6 years and/or fine up to P100,000 for willful violations. (Section 11.1b)
- Administrative penalties for public officers/employees for failure to enforce the Fire Code. (Section 11.2a)
- Imprisonment of 6 months to 6 years and/or fine up to P100,000 for willful violations by public officers/employees. (Section 11.2b)

Appropriations and Sources of Income (Sections 12-13D):
- Appropriations from the national government to support the BFP's manpower, infrastructure, and equipment needs.
- Imposition of various fees and taxes related to building permits, real estate, insurance premiums, and sales of fire equipment and services.
- Collection and allocation of taxes, fees, and fines between the national government and local government units.
- Monitoring and reporting mechanisms for the implementation of the Fire Code and collection of fees.

Repealing Clause (Section 15):
- Repeals Presidential Decree No. 1185 and other inconsistent laws, decrees, and regulations.

Separability Clause (Section 16):
- If any provision is declared unconstitutional, other provisions shall remain in effect.

Effectivity (Section 17):
- The Act shall take effect 15 days after publication in the Official Gazette or two national newspapers.