SEN. Bong Go visited Barangay 264 in Tondo, Manila, on Sunday, May 3, to check on families affected by the April 30 fire.
Accompanied by Barangay Chairman Teresita Sta. Maria Yambao and local officials, Go met with residents, listened to their concerns, and provided assistance to support their recovery.
About 555 families received relief assistance during the visit. The senator distributed financial assistance, grocery packs, snacks, shirts, balls, and other necessities. Some beneficiaries were also given additional items such as bicycles, mobile phones, shoes and watches.
Go underscored the importance of fire prevention and safety awareness, reminding residents that while material losses can be replaced, lives lost in such incidents cannot.
He said that visiting disaster-stricken communities will make disaster victims feel they are supported.
He also thanked residents for their trust and reaffirmed his commitment to continue serving Filipinos.
Also, the senator expressed appreciation for barangay officials, noting their crucial role as first responders during emergencies.
Go, assured residents that his office remains accessible and ready to provide continued assistance as they rebuild their lives.
As vice chairman of the Senate Committee on Health, he also highlighted the availability of medical assistance for those in need, particularly individuals recovering from disasters.
He reiterated the role of Malasakit Centers, which provide streamlined access to medical aid for indigent patients.
Go authored and sponsored Republic Act (RA) 11463, which institutionalized the program.
According to the Department of Health, 167 centers are now operational nationwide, benefiting more than 17 million Filipinos.
In Manila, Malasakit Centers are available in several government hospitals, including Tondo Medical Center, Philippine General Hospital, Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital, Jose R. Reyes Memorial Medical Center, and San Lazaro Hospital.
Go continues to advocate for stronger disaster preparedness measures. He is a principal author and co-sponsor of RA 12076, which mandates the establishment of permanent, disaster-resilient evacuation centers in all cities and municipalities.
He also cited RA 11589, another measure he principally authored and co-sponsored, aimed at enhancing the response capabilities of fire personnel.
As affected families continue to recover, Go assured them that his support will extend beyond immediate aid, particularly for communities facing calamities and urgent needs.
