International Research Organization and Academic Publication

Abstract

This study assessed operational performance and training implementation in the Bureau of Fire Protection -National Capital
Region Special Rescue Force as the basis for a proposed five-year capacity development plan. A descriptive research design
used a researcher-developed questionnaire and supplementary semi-structured interviews. The survey included 78
respondents, comprising 46 crew members and 32 supervisors selected through random sampling from populations of 55
crew members and 35 supervisors. Expert review and pilot testing with 20 other Bureau of Fire Protection personnel yielded
a reported Cronbach's alpha of 0.95. Weighted means, standard deviations, independent-samples t tests, and Pearson
correlations were used. Operational performance was rated High across vehicular accidents, high-angle rescue, collapsed
structure search and rescue, hazardous materials operations, and chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive
incidents, with reported overall composite means ranging from 3.13 to 3.38. All five training dimensions were implemented
to a Moderate Extent, with composite means ranging from 3.04 to 3.2. Crew members consistently rated both areas more
favorably than supervisors. Interviews identified inadequate and outdated equipment, lim ited and unevenly distributed
manpower, gaps in specialized and continuous training, weak interagency coordination and communication, and limited
institutional support. These findings informed a proposed 2026-2030 plan addressing operational competencies, training
systems, equipment, personnel support, and coordination. The findings describe perceived capability rather than
independently verified operational outcomes. The plan remains a proposed intervention requiring institutional validation;
its effectiveness was not evaluated.