BACOLOD CITY – Questions over the Java Pension House fire continue to smolder as the families of those killed grieve over the tragic incident.
Bureau of Fire Protection Bacolod chief, Chief Insp. Publio Ploteña, told DNX the fire sprinkler system of the hotel will be a key point in their probe as they try to determine, among others, what caused the fire and why it spread quickly through the five-story structure.
He said arson probers found out in their initial assessment that their were connections but they cannot determine as yet if the system was “working.”
A fire sprinkler system is considered a fire suppression measure under Republic Act No. 9514 or the Comprehensive Fire Code.
Under the Code (insert official gazzete link) , it is classified as a protective or safety device “intended for the protection of buildings or persons” that could also delay the spread of a blaze.
Plotena said the BFP can charge building owners who fail to install it.
See the video for more updates in the DNX Interview with the local fire marshal.
