The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has filed administrative and criminal charges against Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) chief Fire Director Jesus Fernandez, accusing him of receiving P14.7 million in kickbacks from a bribery scheme tied to the procurement of ambulances in 2024. The case has been elevated to the Office of the Ombudsman.

MANILA, Philippines — Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla announced on Thursday that Fernandez, along with Rosa Verna Sangga of AutoZone Prime Distributors Inc., faces charges of direct bribery, malversation of public funds, conspiracy, and violation of Republic Act 3019, also known as the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act. 

The alleged scheme involved the procurement of 132 Type 1 Basic Life Support ambulances for the BFP in 2024, when Fernandez chaired the bureau’s bids and awards committee.

Remulla said the investigation uncovered “systematic manipulation” of the bidding process, which allowed Fernandez to pocket millions in bribes. “Ambulances are meant to save lives. Public funds intended for emergency response will never be allowed to become vehicles for corruption,” he stressed during a press briefing.

The DILG emphasized that the case is part of a broader effort to dismantle entrenched corruption within government agencies. Remulla warned that more BFP officials, including retired personnel, may be implicated as the probe continues. 

“This culture of corruption has to stop. The institutionalization of corruption must come to an end. I believe it has to start from the top,” he said.

The complaints were formally filed on March 5, 2026, before the Office of the Ombudsman. If found guilty, Fernandez could face dismissal from service, forfeiture of benefits, and criminal penalties under Philippine law.

The bribery scandal comes at a time when the BFP has been under pressure to modernize its emergency response capabilities. The procurement of ambulances was intended to strengthen the bureau’s capacity to respond to medical emergencies nationwide. Instead, investigators say the process was exploited for personal gain, undermining public trust in the agency.

The case is expected to test the government’s resolve in enforcing accountability among high-ranking officials. Analysts note that the outcome will be closely watched as a measure of the administration’s anti-corruption drive.

Image from Bureau of Fire Protection