Advisers

Keint Carlos R. Dela Cruz, MSCJ

Discipline

Criminology

Abstract

Fire incidents remain a major hazard in the Philippines, particularly in urban areas such as Quezon City. While the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) provides formal fire response, barangay based fire volunteers play a vital supplementary role. However, their effectiveness in terms of readiness, coordination, and sustainability has not been widely documented. This study, “An Assessment on the Fire Volunteer Response Team of Barangay Sta. Monica, Quezon City,” evaluates the preparedness, response capacity, community involvement, and inter-agency cooperation of local fire volunteers. The study utilized a quantitative descriptive research design to assess the performance of the fire volunteer response team. Structured survey questionnaires were distributed to barangay residents, barangay officials, and fire volunteers. A total of fifty (50) respondents participated in the study. Data on preparedness, response capacity, coordination, and community involvement were analyzed using frequency counts, percentages, and weighted mean. Statistical analysis was applied to determine significant differences based on demographic variables. The study was anchored on Community Participation Theory. Findings revealed that community engagement initiatives, including the Kabataang QC Volunteer Program and Fire Prevention Month campaigns, enhanced awareness and preparedness. Training workshops and simulation exercises conducted by the BFP and the local government improved operational capacity and coordination. Logistical support from the Quezon City Government, such as equipment and financial assistance, strengthened sustainability. However, limited resources, inconsistent training, and lack of standardized skill development programs remained key challenges. The study confirms that fire volunteer teams play a crucial role in supplementing official fire response, especially in resource-constrained communities. Their effectiveness increases with structured training, adequate logistics, and strong inter-agency collaboration. Institutionalizing regular training, improving resource allocation, and integrating volunteers into barangay-level disaster risk reduction frameworks are recommended to enhance long-term performance and community resilience.

Keywords

Preparedness, community participation, Fire Volunteers, Disaster Risk Reduction, Barangay Response