SEN. Bong Go visited Barangay 607 in Sta. Mesa, Manila, on Friday to assess conditions following a recent fire and to check on families affected by the incident.
The visit focused on 172 families affected by the blaze, with the senator citing the importance of providing immediate assistance while addressing longer-term recovery needs. By going directly to the community, the senator said he aimed to ensure that aid reaches residents promptly and to hear the concerns of those affected.
During an activity held at the barangay covered court, Go inspected the affected area and spoke with residents, expressing reassurance and solidarity. Through his office, financial assistance, grocery packs, snacks, water containers, shirts, vitamins, fruits and other essential items were distributed to help families address urgent needs. Some beneficiaries also received bicycles, mobile phones, watches and pairs of shoes.
“Don’t lose hope. Things can be replaced, but life cannot. A lost life is a lost life forever,” Go said, emphasizing the importance of bayanihan, or collective community support, in times of crisis. “Let us help one another. I will serve you to the best of my ability.”
During the visit, the senator was also seen supporting a local vendor selling “turon,” “lumpiang togue” and other Filipino snacks, highlighting his call to help small livelihoods recover alongside affected households. He encouraged residents and visitors to continue supporting local vendors as part of the community’s recovery.
Go also acknowledged barangay officials who helped organize the activity and ensure orderly coordination. He reminded local leaders of their responsibility to remain accessible to those in need. “My only request to barangay officials is this: do not neglect our poor countrymen. Your offices should always be open whenever someone needs help,” he said.
The senator reiterated his commitment to addressing housing concerns in communities affected by disasters. He cited Senate Bill 415, which seeks to establish a Rental Housing Subsidy Program to provide temporary shelter assistance to displaced families while they transition to permanent housing.
Likewise, he highlighted Republic Act (RA) 11589, or the Bureau of Fire Protection Modernization Act of 2021, which he principally authored and co-sponsored, notes that the law strengthens the capacity of fire personnel to respond more effectively to fire-related emergencies. He also cited RA 12076, or the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act, which mandates the establishment of safe and resilient evacuation centers in every city and municipality nationwide.
Local officials were also recognized for their support during the visit, including Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso, Vice Mayor Chi Atienza, Barangay 607 captain Jose Rosales Jr., Barangay 617 captain Ludwig Solano and Barangay 604 captain Danny Calapano, whose offices coordinated closely to ensure the smooth conduct of the relief operation.
“We will continue to serve because service to the people is my commitment, and I believe that service to the people is service to God,” Go said.
