Firefly (band)

From the syncopated strike on the snare to the electrifying sound of the lead guitar and the bass, all bands make their mark by offering a different kind of entertainment to audiences. The Firefly band differentiates itself from the competition by singing not only about love or heartbreak but by articulating ways on how to prevent destructive fires.

The name of the band, which means Firemen Forever Love You, first jammed together during the Bureau of Fire Protection Christmas pParty on December 22, 2002. Since then, the group continued to deliver their unique message through original songs, most of which are compiled in an album titled Langit. This 10-track album has the carrier single "Langit", which features Cesar Apolinario as the singer. It also includes the tracks "Kasama Mo Ako" featuring Rico J. Puno, "Trapik", "Kalikasan", "Sunog", "Taong Grasa", "Mr. Bell", "Hoy!", "I Love You", and "Nasaan Ka Na".

In "Sunog", one will realize the importance of learning about the fire prevention while listening to lyrics such as "Wag maging alipin sa kapangyarihan ng apoy / Di Mo na maibabalik ang nasawing buhay sa sunog / Iwasan ang sunog / Dahil ang sunog nakakakilabot".

The Firefly band is composed of three active firefighters who recognize that they have the primary responsibility not only to put out fires but also promote fore safety awareness among Filipinos. These are F/Chief Insp. Leonardo "Popoy" Sabellina, Jr. (band leader, guitarist, vocals), Fire Officer 2 Richard Erichson Malamug (lead guitar and vocals), FO1 Rhoderick Herrera (bass). They are joined by a civilian musician, Nowie Favila who shares his talent in playing the drums.

After five years of performing together, the band decided to part ways in 2007, only to find themselves reunited in March 2008 for the Fire Prevention Month. The group was dubbed as the "Singing Firemen" in GMA-7 shows such as 24 Oras and Mel and Joey. in ABS-CBN, they were featured in the late-night show Bandila. It was at that time when the band met GMA-7 reporter and director of the award-winning film "Banal", Cesar Apolinario.

Upon learning about their advocacy, Cesar offered his services for free-from conceptualization and scriptwriting to casting and directing-in order to create their first MTV "Sunog".

Firefighters are usually seen in protective coats and helmets as they rescue victims and battle devastating fires. But these firemen decided to don civilian clothes and reach out to Filipinos through the power of music. Spreading the message of fire safety awareness through their song is an extension of their duties-a noble endeavor that could hopefully reduce the casualties in fire-related incidents in the country.