Mandaue City is set to acquire a firefighting drone capable of carrying fire hoses up to 100 meters high, as local officials seek innovative ways to combat fires in tall buildings. Mayor Thadeo Jovito “Jonkie” Ouano witnessed a demonstration by a Taiwanese company on Monday, May 25, 2026, as the city explores equipment that can reach fires beyond the capacity of ladder trucks.
According to Ouano, the city government plans to initially lease one unit for a year to evaluate its effectiveness in supporting fire suppression operations in this highly urbanized city. The North Reclamation Area served as the venue for the drone demonstration, allowing officials to assess its actual capabilities.
Drone Features and Potential Impact
The drone is designed to carry fire hoses to heights of up to 100 meters, making it ideal for high-rise buildings that are difficult to reach with traditional firefighting equipment. This capability could significantly enhance the city's disaster response, particularly in densely populated areas with numerous tall structures.
Lease Agreement and Evaluation
The one-year lease will allow the city to test the drone in real-world scenarios, including actual fire incidents and training exercises. Officials will monitor its performance, durability, and ease of integration with existing firefighting protocols.
Mayor Ouano emphasized the importance of adopting advanced technology to protect lives and property. The drone is expected to complement existing firefighting resources, providing an additional layer of response capability for high-rise emergencies.
