IN the aftermath of a fire that hit Poblacion, Muntinlupa City, Sen. Bong Go dispatched his team on April 8 to assist affected families, emphasizing both immediate relief and the need for long-term disaster preparedness.
Held at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Muntinlupa, the outreach assisted 23 fire-displaced families.
Beneficiaries received financial aid, grocery packs, water containers, vitamins, snacks, clothing, and other essential items intended to help them recover from the incident.
In a video call with the victims, Go reaffirmed his commitment to extending assistance to Filipinos in crisis despite his legislative responsibilities.
“I will help you wherever you are in the Philippines; as long as my body and time allow, I will go to you,” the senator said in Filipino.
Beyond emergency response, Go highlighted the importance of strengthening the country's disaster resilience.
He cited Republic Act (RA) 12076, which mandates the establishment of permanent, fully equipped evacuation centers in all cities and municipalities.
As the principal author and co-sponsor of the measure, Go said the law aims to ensure safer, more dignified conditions for displaced families while facilitating faster recovery from disasters.
“I am appealing to my colleagues in the government. Give priority to evacuation centers because this is the law rather than wasting flood control that is being used as a milking parlor for a few,” he said.
Likewise, the senator highlighted the importance of RA 11589, which seeks to improve the country’s fire prevention and response capabilities.
The law provides for upgraded equipment, additional personnel, and enhanced training for the Bureau of Fire Protection over the next 10 years.
Complementing these initiatives, Go renewed his call for the passage of Senate Bill (SB) 415.
The proposed measure aims to provide temporary housing subsidies to families displaced by disasters while they work toward securing permanent shelter.
Go concluded by urging Filipinos to extend compassion and timely assistance to those in need, particularly in times of crisis.
"Let us remember, we only pass through this world once. Whatever good or help we can do for our fellow man, let us do it now because we will not return to this world,” he said.
Authorities have yet to release full details on the cause of the fire, while affected families continue to receive assistance from local and national government units.
