Families affected by a recent fire in Davao City received much-needed assistance and words of encouragement from Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go, who personally visited the evacuation site on Saturday.
A total of 231 families received assistance during the distribution held at the barangay hall, in coordination with local officials led by Barangay Captain Robert Diaz.
The fire, which struck Barangay Kapitan Tomas Monteverde in Agdao on March 16, displaced hundreds of residents.
In response, Go met with affected families and urged them to stay hopeful despite their losses.
“Huwag po kayong mawalan ng pag-asa. Ang lagi ko pong sinasabi, ang gamit ay mabibili natin ‘yan, ang pera, kikitain n’yo ‘yan kung magsusumikap lang tayo. Pero ang perang kikitain ay hindi mabibili ang buhay,” Go said.
Beneficiaries were given grocery packs, vitamins, water containers, shirts, balls, foldable fans, and financial aid to help them recover.
Additional items such as shoes, a watch, a bicycle, and a mobile phone were also raffled off.
The senator’s visit coincided with Fire Prevention Month, during which he emphasized the importance of vigilance, especially in the dry season when fire incidents are more frequent.
He also highlighted the need to strengthen disaster preparedness and response systems, citing the Bureau of Fire Protection Modernization Act of 2021, a law he principally authored and co-sponsored.
The measure provides for a 10-year modernization plan, including increased recruitment, advanced equipment, and specialized training for firefighters.
Go further reiterated his support for long-term disaster resilience through the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act, which mandates the establishment of permanent, well-equipped evacuation centers in all cities and municipalities.
As vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, Go also underscored the importance of accessible healthcare services.
“Napakahalaga po sa akin ang kalusugan ng bawat Pilipino. Ang Malasakit Center, para po ‘yan sa Pilipino—inyo po ‘yan, karapatan po ‘yan ng bawat Pilipino,” he said.
Malasakit Centers, established under a law he authored, provide indigent patients with streamlined access to financial medical assistance.
One such center operates at the Southern Philippines Medical Center in Davao City.
“Asahan niyo po, bukas po ang aking opisina para sa inyo, mga kababayan ko. Huwag po nating kalimutang magpasalamat sa Panginoon,” Go said.
