Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has renewed his call to boost fire prevention and disaster resilience, as his Malasakit Team rushed to bring immediate relief to families displaced by a fire in Quezon City.
Citing repeated fire incidents that strike communities, Go stressed that government efforts should go beyond distributing aid — and prioritize better preparedness and lasting recovery for those affected.
On Monday, July 20, his team visited Barangay Sauyo, Quezon City, extending help to 67 families who lost their homes and belongings to the blaze.
Even as he attends to duties in the Senate, Go assured the public that he remains committed to reaching every Filipino in need.
“Tutulong ako saan mang sulok kayo ng Pilipinas — basta kaya ng katawan at panahon ko, pupuntahan ko kayo,” he said in a video call.
“Sa mga kababayan nating nasunugan, huwag po kayong mawalan ng pag-asa. Ang importante po ay ligtas ang buhay. Ang gamit ay mapapalitan, pero ang buhay ay hindi na maibabalik,” he reminded them.
Go emphasized the urgent need to upgrade fire response systems, especially in crowded communities where fires can spread fast and wipe out homes and livelihoods. He cited Republic Act No. 11589, or the Bureau of Fire Protection Modernization Act — a law he principally authored and co-sponsored — which lays out a 10-year plan to boost equipment, manpower, and training for fire fighters nationwide.
To complement this, he is pushing for Senate Bill No. 415, or the proposed Rental Housing Subsidy Program, which would give temporary shelter aid to families displaced by disasters while they rebuild toward permanent homes.
Beneficiaries received financial assistance, snacks, vitamins, water containers, grocery packs, shirts, and sports balls. Selected families also got shoes and mobile phones to help them get back on their feet.
In closing, Go urged everyone to extend kindness 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.”
