SENATOR Christopher “Bong” Go, in a message, told victims of recent fire incidents in Barangay Cagniog, Surigao City, as his Malasakit Team extended aid on Wednesday, November 20.
“Ang gamit ay nabibili, ang pera ay kikitain, subalit ‘yung perang kikitain ay hindi po nakakabili ng buhay. A lost life is a lost life forever. Importante ay buhay tayo kaya pangalagaan natin ang buhay na ibinigay sa atin ng Panginoon,”
Go highlighted his efforts in strengthening fire response capabilities through Republic Act No. 11589, or the Bureau of Fire Protection Modernization Act of 2021, which he principally authored and co-sponsored. The law provides for the acquisition of modern firefighting equipment, recruitment of additional personnel, and specialized training for firefighters to enhance their skills and readiness.
Additionally, Go highlighted Senate Bill No. 2451 or the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act, which he principally authored and is one of the co-sponsors, which pushes for the establishment of mandatory evacuation centers. This measure ensures that displaced families, especially those affected by disasters, have a safe and secure place to stay. This bill was recently approved on the third and final reading in the Senate.
“Panahon na rin na magkaroon sa bawat lokalidad ng ligtas at kumpleto sa supply na evacuation centers. Bukod sa kanilang kaligtasan at kalusugan, kailangan ding mapangalagaan ang dignidad ng ating evacuees,” Go explained.
The relief operation was conducted at the evacuation center in Barangay Cagniog and in coordination with the local government of Surigao City, led by Mayor Palo Yves Dumlao II, where 25 affected families received financial aid, grocery packs, water containers, vitamins, snacks, and clothing from Senator Go. There were also select recipients of shoes.
Go then thanked the local government officials of Surigao City for their unwavering support and dedication to extending government services to the Filipino people.
“Hinding-hindi ko po sasayangin ‘yung pagkakataong ibinigay n’yo po sa akin. Magtatrabaho po ako para sa Pilipino. Patuloy kaming magseserbisyo sa inyo dahil bisyo ko ang magserbisyo at ako ay naniniwala na ang serbisyo sa tao ay serbisyo ‘yan sa Panginoon, serbisyo ‘yan kay Allah,” said Go, who is widely recognized as “Mr. Malasakit” for his unwavering dedication to serving Filipinos in need.
The senator assured the fire victims that his office remains committed to providing assistance and addressing their immediate needs as they rebuild their lives.
