Senator Bong Go lauded the officers and members of the Filipino Chinese Fire Fighters of Davao City as reliable partners in safeguarding communities during their 36th Anniversary.
“For more than three decades, your organization has been a reliable partner in safeguarding our communities. Your courage and selflessness embody the true spirit of service,” Go said in a video message.
According to the veteran legislator, the occasion is not just a celebration of years of service, but a reaffirmation of the organization’s commitment to protecting lives and property in Davao City.
The seasoned lawmaker reminded the firefighters that their bravery was not enough and that they still needed the government’s support.
“You need the proper equipment, comprehensive training, and the support of the government to fulfill your mission effectively.”
“You need the proper equipment, comprehensive training, and the support of the government to fulfill your mission effectively,” the seasoned lawmaker explained.
“That is why, as a legislator, I have made it a priority to push for measures that strengthen the welfare of our firefighters and other uniformed personnel. One of these is being the principal author and co-sponsor of Republic Act No. 11589, or the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Modernization Act of 2021.” The senator added.
Under this law, the BFP will be provided with modern equipment, upgraded facilities, and intensified fire prevention campaigns in communities.
“When you are well-prepared, the whole community is safer.”
“Alongside this, I have also advocated for additional funding for equipment and training programs, to ensure that our firefighters are always ready for any situation. Because when you are well-prepared, the whole community is safer,” he said.
In addition, Go, during the administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte, worked for the salary increase of uniformed personnel in 2018.
“I continue to support measures that seek to reclassify key positions in the BFP to ensure fairness in benefits and ranks, on par with other uniformed services,” he added.
Go likewise principally authored RA 12177, or the Free Legal Assistance to MUPs Act, which provides free legal aid to uniformed personnel involved in cases related to the performance of duty.
Furthermore, he co-authored RA 11549, lowering the minimum height requirement for BFP applicants and other agencies, so that more qualified and dedicated individuals are given the chance to serve.
Apart from all these, Go also filed Senate Bill 684, which aims to grant full scholarships to the children of uniformed personnel who lose their lives in the line of duty.
“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,” he concluded.
