SEN. Christopher “Bong” Go extended additional assistance to 349 residents affected by a fire in Barangay 20, Tondo, Manila, as he renewed calls for stronger disaster preparedness and sustained government support for displaced families.
Go met with the fire victims on Tuesday after his Senate work, assuring them that his office would remain accessible as they recover from the incident.
“I am always here. Back in 2016, I was here following President Duterte’s inauguration — he even hosted a meal here. Whenever a fire breaks out, I am always here in Tondo,” Go said.
He urged affected residents to seek assistance whenever necessary, emphasizing his commitment to helping communities in times of crisis.
“As for me, as your senator, I am the one who should be thanking you, because you have given me another opportunity to serve you,” he added.
During the distribution activity at the Barangay 20 covered court, Go’s Malasakit Team provided meals, food packs, vitamins, shirts, pens, bags, and balls, including basketball, volleyball, and pickleball. Selected beneficiaries also received bicycles, mobile phones, shoes, and watches.
Beyond immediate relief, Go, in coordination with Manila First District Councilor MC “Bobby Lim” Limyuen and Barangay Chairman Anthony Igus, worked with the national government to facilitate housing assistance for families whose homes were damaged by the fire.
The initiative seeks to help displaced residents rebuild their homes and restore stability following the disaster.
Go also cited his legislative efforts to strengthen the country’s disaster response and emergency preparedness, including Republic Act (RA) 12076, or the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act, which he principally authored and co-sponsored.
The law mandates the establishment of safe and disaster-resilient evacuation centers in every city and municipality nationwide to provide communities with secure shelter during disasters and other emergencies.
He also pointed to RA 11589, or the Bureau of Fire Protection Modernization Act of 2021, which he principally authored and co-sponsored. The measure aims to improve the Bureau of Fire Protection's capabilities through modern firefighting equipment, additional personnel, and specialized training.
Go likewise reiterated his push for a rental housing subsidy program under Senate Bill (SB) 415, which he filed at the start of the 20th Congress.
The proposed measure seeks to provide rental assistance to displaced families and informal settler households struggling to secure decent housing.
Go encouraged the fire victims to remain hopeful and continue coordinating with his office for assistance, while urging them to extend kindness and help to others whenever they could.
