The Davao City Fire District (DCFD), in partnership with the City Government of Davao and key personnel, is set to hold the Fire Square Roadshow on September 11, 2026 at the SM City Annex. The initiative delivers hands-on emergency training directly to the local community.
Fire Chief Insp. Francheska Marie Sendrijas, Chief of the DCFD Public Information Unit, said that the event coincides with the commemoration of the 9/11 tragedy. It was first held during Fire Prevention Month on March 4, 2026. This program honors the bravery of firefighters while also actively promoting the DILG’s unified 911 hotline to boost public participation in safety preparedness.
The event was first launched around 2018, wherein the interactive program teaches critical firefighting skills alongside practical earthquake and evacuation drills, as well as mini rappelling. What’s new this month is an expanded multi-agency presence, with the signified participation of the Philippine Coastguard and Philippine Navy.
The event offers free registration and specifically targets children aged 4 to 12, though all Dabawenyos are welcome to attend. By actively engaging young participants, organizers aim to build lifelong safety habits and help children remain calm during unexpected crises.
With children being particularly vulnerable during disasters, the program prioritizes clear and practical safety parameters that empower them to act effectively. Participants learn significant evacuation routes to ensure they know exactly how to exit buildings safely during distinct emergencies.
“Aside dun sa safety na ginagawa natin dun sa preparedness natin, pag naturuan natin paano mag evacuate, napakahalaga kasi ng evacuation pag dating sa mga sunog, alam ng mga bata kung saan sila lalabas, alam nila saan pupunta, ay mapigilan pa natin tong casualty pag dating dito sa sunog (Aside from the safety measures we take as part of our preparedness, teaching children how to evacuate is very important, especially when it comes to fires. If they know where to exit and where to go, we can help prevent casualties in the event of a fire),” Sendrijas said. CIO
Written by: J. Murillo
Edited by: A. Nawal
Photo by: J. Faelnar