The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) is preparing to file criminal and administrative charges against several officials of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) over alleged bid-rigging in the procurement of fire and rescue equipment.

DILG officials said the planned filing follows an internal investigation that uncovered indications of collusion and irregularities in the bidding process for essential firefighting equipment. The alleged scheme reportedly undermined fair competition and may have resulted in overpriced or improperly awarded contracts.

According to the department, the case is not about isolated lapses but about protecting public funds and the integrity of emergency services. Fire equipment procurement, officials stressed, directly affects response capability, public safety, and the lives of both civilians and firefighters.

The BFP, an attached agency of the DILG, has not issued a detailed response as of writing. However, officials emphasized that due process will be observed and that those involved will be given the opportunity to answer the allegations in the proper forum.

The move comes amid heightened scrutiny of procurement practices across government agencies, particularly in sectors where equipment quality and readiness are critical. For governance advocates, the case highlights a recurring concern: corruption in procurement does not just waste money—it weakens frontline services.

As charges are set to be filed, the focus now shifts from investigation to accountability. The courts, not press statements, will determine liability.

In public safety, integrity is not optional.