NAVAL, Biliran– The provincial office of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in Biliran has inaugurated its newly completed rappelling facility on June 26, marking a significant milestone in the advancement of firefighters’ training in the region.

Based on BFP records, this is the first rappelling facility in the entire Eastern Visayas region — a development hailed as a major step forward in strengthening the operational capability of local fire personnel not only in Biliran but across the region.

The state-of-the-art facility will serve as a dedicated training ground for realistic and high-risk emergency drills, particularly high-angle rescue operations, which are considered critical tasks requiring advanced skill, precision, and courage.

The facility aims to equip firefighters with the necessary tools and experience to respond effectively to emergencies involving heights, confined spaces, and vertical rescues.
More than a physical structure, the facility is a symbol of unity, resilience, and preparedness among the firefighters of Biliran, said Fire Senior Superintendent Joelito S. Sabandal, BFP regional director for administration, who delivered a message on behalf of BFP-8 Regional Director Adel De Paz Bautista.

“This new structure stands as a testament to our shared commitment to build a stronger, more capable fire service — not only in responding to fires but also in complex rescue operations that require skill, focus, and bravery,” Sabandal said.

“Its completion represents a firm investment in excellence and preparedness,” Sabandal said, emphasizing that the President and the Filipino people “deserve only the best” when it comes to public safety.

Through the leadership of Fire Senior Inspector Zardoz B. Abela, the provincial fire marshal of Biliran, his efforts in the realization of this project was instrumental in turning the idea into a tangible facility that will benefit generations of firefighters to come.

BFP Biliran likewise expressed gratitude to the local government of Biliran, under the leadership of Governor Gerard Roger M. Espina, and to the municipality of Naval headed by Mayor Gretchen Stephanie Espina, for their unwavering support of the BFP’s programs and initiatives.

“This facility stands not only because of the efforts of the BFP, but also because of the strong collaboration between government officials, the fire service, and the community. It is an example of effective governance and meaningful partnership for the safety and welfare of the people of Biliran,” Sabandal said.

The event was attended by local officials, partner agencies, firefighters from across the province, and representatives from BFP Region 8.

With the facility now fully operational, the BFP Biliran is set to begin intensified training activities that simulate real-life rescue scenarios—enhancing preparedness and raising the standard of fire service professionalism in the province.

(RSV/PIA Biliran)