In the wake of a fire that struck Barangay 23 in Pasay City, Senator Bong Go sent his team to assist affected families, underscoring the need for immediate relief and long-term support systems for disaster victims.
Go reassured victims of his continued commitment to reach Filipinos in need despite his duties in the Senate.
“Basta kaya ng katawan at panahon ko, pupuntahan ko kayo.”
“Tutulong ako saan mang sulok kayo ng Pilipinas, basta kaya ng katawan at panahon ko, pupuntahan ko kayo,” the veteran legislator said in a video call.
The distribution activity, held at the Barangay 23 Hall, benefited 129 fire-hit families who received financial assistance, snacks, vitamins, water containers, balls, shirts, and fans grocery packs to help them recover from the incident. Select recipients also received shoes, a mobile phone, and a bicycle.
Beyond emergency response, the seasoned lawmaker emphasized that strengthening disaster preparedness remains equally important. The senator pointed to Republic Act No. 12076, or the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act, which mandates the establishment of permanent and fully equipped evacuation centers in all cities and municipalities nationwide.
As the principal author and co-sponsor of the law, he stressed that having dedicated evacuation centers ensures safer, more dignified conditions for displaced families while enabling faster recovery after disasters.
“Ako po ay nakikiusap sa mga kasamahan ko sa gobyerno, bigyang prayoridad ang evacuation centers.”
“Ako po ay nakikiusap sa mga kasamahan ko sa gobyerno. Bigyang prayoridad ang evacuation centers dahil batas naman po ito kesa nasasayang sa flood control na ginagawang gatasan ng iilan po,” Go underscored.
He also highlighted RA 11589, or the Bureau of Fire Protection Modernization Act, which he principally authored and co-sponsored. The law seeks to enhance the country’s fire prevention and response capabilities through improved equipment, additional personnel, and upgraded training over a ten-year period.
Complementing these measures, Go renewed his push for Senate Bill No. 415, or the proposed Rental Housing Subsidy Program. The measure aims to provide temporary housing support to families displaced by disasters as they work toward securing permanent shelter.
He concluded by reminding Filipinos of the value of compassion and timely assistance to those in need.
“Tandaan natin, minsan lang tayo dadaan sa mundong ito. Kung ano pong kabutihan o tulong na puwede natin gawin sa ating kapwa ay gawin na natin ngayon dahil hindi na tayo babalik sa mundong ito,” Go stressed.
