Senator "Bong" Go has once again emphasized the importance of raising awareness on fire safety and preparedness as his team held a relief operation for fire victims in Mati City, Davao Oriental on Monday, 24 October.

To help improve the fire response in the country, Go principally authored and co-sponsored Republic Act No. 11589, otherwise known as the Bureau of Fire Protection Modernization Act of 2021. The Act mandates the bureau to undergo a modernization program that includes procuring of new fire equipment, expanding manpower, and conducting specialized training for firefighters.

It also directs the BFP to conduct monthly fire prevention campaigns and information drives in partnership with the Department of the Interior and Local Government and local government units.

In a video message, Go reminded the 22 affected families to always prioritize their safety, especially at this time of health crisis, saying, "Nakakalungkot man po na nasunugan kayo pero ang importante po ay magtulungan tayo at kayo ay ligtas. Ang gamit po naman ay nabibili, pero ang perang kikitain ay hindi po nabibili ang buhay."

Held at Barangay Sainz Gymnasium, Go's team provided grocery packs, snacks, masks, vitamins and shirts to the fire victims and provided select beneficiaries with shoes, slippers, umbrellas, cellular phones, and balls for basketball and volleyball.

Meanwhile, the Department of Social Welfare and Development extended cash assistance to help the affected families sustain their daily needs. The National Housing Authority likewise assessed the victims for possible housing assistance.

Furthermore, the Department of Labor and Employment and the Department of Trade and Industry conducted assessments for potential recipients of their respective livelihood support grants.

The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority also evaluated qualified beneficiaries for its scholarship program.