As part of the 18th Charter Day Celebration of the Southern Luzon State University (SLSU), the much-anticipated Fire and Rescue Olympics 2025 commenced at the university’s Covered Court and Open Field. Held on the third day of the celebration, the event was organized by the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO) in collaboration with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP). With the theme “Empowered SLSU Men and Women Fused in Fire and Rescue Olympics 2025,” the activity highlighted the significance of Women’s Month and Fire Prevention Month in nurturing a culture of safety and preparedness within the university community. The event saw enthusiastic participation from almost a hundred participants composed of faculty members, non-teaching employees, and students, with the College of Allied Medicine (CAM) fielding the largest contingent.
Fire Chief Inspector Richard C. Villa, the Municipal Fire Marshal of the Lucban Fire Station, formally opened the event with a reaffirmation of the BFP’s commitment to fire prevention and emergency response training. In his address, he stated, “Laging bukas ang aming tanggapan para tumulong, mag-lecture, at magbantay,” emphasizing the agency’s unwavering dedication to conducting fire safety lectures, offering assistance, and ensuring the protection of individuals within the community.
Fire Officer III Louie Jie D. Oblefias facilitated a technical lecture on Fire Safety, underscoring the importance of fire prevention measures, fire mitigation strategies, and the necessity of conducting routine fire drills. His discussion focused on recognizing potential fire hazards and the benefits of comprehensive fire safety education as emphasized in the Republic Act (RA) No. 9514, otherwise known as the Fire Code of the Philippines and its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR).
The morning session also engaged participants in an interactive demonstration of fire suppression techniques, with a particular focus on the P-A-S-S (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, and Sweep) method for effective fire extinguisher use. Additionally, they practiced a bucket relay, enhancing their teamwork, coordination, and the swift execution of fire response measures.
The afternoon session marked the most exciting part of the Fire and Rescue Olympics, as six groups competed in a series of high-intensity challenges that put their fire response and rescue skills to the test. The competition had a real bucket-relay exercise using actual water, simulating an emergency fire suppression scenario where teamwork and coordination were crucial.
The afternoon session marked the most exciting part of the Fire and Rescue Olympics, as six groups competed in a series of high-intensity challenges that put their fire response and rescue skills to the test. The competition had a real bucket-relay exercise using actual water, simulating an emergency fire suppression scenario where teamwork and coordination were crucial.
In another set, they conducted a flammable liquid fire extinguishment drill, where participants applied the techniques learned earlier to control and suppress a more intense fire situation.
The most critical challenge was the rescue mobilization exercise, which emphasized participants’ ability to respond effectively to emergency scenarios. The teams were tested on quick decision-making, strategic coordination, and efficient execution of rescue techniques under simulated disaster conditions, reinforcing the importance of preparedness and teamwork in real-life emergencies.
After an intense and spirited competition, the students from the College of Allied Medicine (CAM) emerged as the champions of the Fire Olympics, showcasing their exceptional skills and teamwork in fire suppression and rescue operations.
The Fire and Rescue Olympics 2025 marks a proactive stance in developing a resilient and well-prepared community at SLSU, ensuring that as the institution advances in its academic and research pursuits, it does so with a foundation of safety, vigilance, and preparedness. Through this initiative, faculty, staff, and students are empowered with life-saving knowledge, skills, and attitudes, safeguarding that the university remains equipped to prevent and mitigate fire-related incidents. As SLSU continues its journey as a growing academic institution, instilling fire safety awareness and emergency response competency remains a cornerstone of its commitment to protecting lives and property.
Article: Giehway R. Liwanag
Photo & Layout: SMRRivere