Senator Christopher Bong Go, adopted son of CALABARZON, recently dispatched his Malasakit Team to extend additional assistance to fire victims in Barangay Dulong Bayan, Bacoor City, Cavite.
Amid the ongoing dry season, Go, in a video call, highlighted the dangerously rising heat index levels across the country, stressing how extreme temperatures not only threaten public health but also increase the likelihood of fire incidents.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) recently warned the public regarding several areas in the country that may potentially experience ‘danger level’ heat index ranging from 42° to 51° C. Some areas will reach 43°C, such as Dagupan City, Pangasinan; Subic Bay, Zambales; Olongapo City, Zambales; and Sangley Point, Cavite.
Meanwhile, 42°C will be felt in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte; Bacnotan, La Union; Aparri, Cagayan; Camiling, Tarlac; and San Jose, Occidental Mindoro, among other areas.
“Higher temperatures bring an increased threat of heat-related illnesses.”
The Department of Health (DOH) has also warned the public regarding the increasing heat index experienced in recent days in different parts of the country, as higher temperatures bring an increased threat of heat-related illnesses.
As Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Health, the veteran legislator urged affected residents to take preventive measures against heat-related illnesses, including staying hydrated, avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, and seeking immediate medical attention when symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, or fatigue occur.
The seasoned lawmaker also encouraged beneficiaries to maximize available government health services, particularly through the Malasakit Centers program.
Established under Republic Act No. 11463, which the senator principally authored and sponsored, Malasakit Centers serve as one-stop shops that streamline medical assistance from various government agencies. To date, the program has assisted over 17 million Filipinos through 167 operational centers nationwide, according to the DOH.
In Bacoor City, a Malasakit Center is available at the Southern Tagalog Regional Hospital to cater to indigent patients needing medical support.
Meanwhile, his Malasakit Team, in coordination with the local government of Bacoor City, facilitated the distribution of assistance at the RCD Villas de Bacoor Clubhouse. A total of 88 beneficiaries received snacks, food packs, and balls, while select individuals were given shoes and a bicycle with the support of local officials, including Congresswoman Lani Mercado-Revilla, Mayor Strike Revilla, Vice Mayor Rowena Bautista-Mendiola, Councilor Levy Tela, and Barangay Kagawad Macky Atencio.
In addition, the beneficiaries have received housing assistance through government programs to help rebuild their homes.
“Sa ilalim ng programang ito na ating isinulong, mabibigyan ang mga benepisyaryo ng tulong para pambili ng materyales tulad ng mga pako at yero na pampatayo muli ng kanilang mga nasirang bahay.”
“Sa ilalim ng programang ito na ating isinulong, mabibigyan ang mga benepisyaryo ng tulong para pambili ng materyales tulad ng mga pako at yero na pampatayo muli ng kanilang mga nasirang bahay,” Go explained.
As part of his broader legislative efforts, he cited RA 11589, which seeks to strengthen the capabilities of the Bureau of Fire Protection through modernization, increased manpower, and enhanced training. Go also highlighted RA 12076, mandating the establishment of safe and disaster-resilient evacuation centers nationwide. Both of which he principally authored and co-sponsored in the Senate.
“Gagawin ko lang po ang magtrabaho dahil bisyo ko ang magserbisyo at naniniwala ako na ang serbisyo sa tao ay serbisyo sa Diyos. Wala tayong ibang dapat pasalamatan, kundi ang ating Panginoon,” he underscored.
“Minsan lang tayong dadaan sa mundong ito. Kaya anumang kabutihan at tulong ang puwede nating ibigay sa kapwa ay gawin na natin ngayon,” Go concluded.
