Tinglayan Fire-Free: Zero fire cases recorded in first half of 2026

TINGLAYAN, Kalinga — While fire incidents surged across Kalinga during the first half of 2026, Tinglayan stood out with zero recorded fire cases, a feat local officials attributed to continued fire-safety awareness, prevention efforts, and cooperation from residents.

According to the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)-Kalinga, the province recorded 64 fire incidents from January to June 2026, a sharp increase from 22 cases during the same period in 2025.

Despite the province-wide rise, Tinglayan maintained zero fire incidents during the six-month period.

Tinglayan also recorded no fire cases during the same period last year, allowing the municipality to maintain its fire-free record amid the increasing threat of grassfires and other incidents across the province.

Grassfires drive Kalinga increase

Of the 64 fire incidents recorded province-wide this year, 49 were non-structural fires, including 41 grassfires.

The remaining incidents included 14 structural fires and one transport fire.

The BFP noted that uncontrolled burning during the dry season poses a particular risk as grass, leaves, crops, and other vegetation can easily catch fire and allow flames to spread rapidly.

Against this backdrop, Tinglayan’s zero-fire record highlights the importance of prevention and community participation in keeping fires at bay.

Mayor credits BFP, residents

Tinglayan Mayor Charlie Abay expressed appreciation to the BFP-Tinglayan for its continuing fire-prevention efforts, particularly its information, education, and communication (IEC) activities aimed at keeping residents aware of fire hazards and safety measures.

Abay also thanked the people of Tinglayan for their cooperation and for following fire-safety reminders and regulations issued by authorities.

“I hope we can maintain this till the end of the year. Nu agtitinnulong tayo ken sumurot ti rules and regulations ken kadagiti advice ti otoridad, we can lessen problems in our community,” Abay said.

The mayor emphasized that maintaining a fire-free municipality requires not only the efforts of firefighters but also the active participation of residents.

BFP urges continued vigilance

The BFP-Tinglayan continues to remind residents to avoid activities that could trigger fires, particularly during dry and windy conditions.

Residents are advised to avoid uncontrolled burning of rubbish and vegetation, never leave cooking fires unattended, keep flammable materials away from open flames, and properly extinguish cigarettes, bonfires, and other sources of fire.

The BFP also encourages residents to immediately report smoke or flames to authorities to prevent small fires from becoming major incidents.

For emergencies, residents may contact the Tinglayan Fire Station at 0945-326-1123.

With six months without a single recorded fire incident, Tinglayan now faces the challenge of keeping the record intact for the remainder of 2026.

For Abay, the formula is simple: continued cooperation, responsible behavior, and heeding the advice of authorities can help keep Tinglayan safe and fire-free.