Senator Christopher "Bong" Go's team extended assistance to residents recovering from recent flooding in Pantukan, Davao de Oro on Wednesday, 30 August.

In a video message, Go acknowledged local officials, including Governor Dodot Gonzaga, Vice Governor Tyron Uy, and Mayor Leonel Ceniza, for their prompt response to the needs of the affected families.

Go's team distributed masks, shirts, and vitamins to 649 flood victims present at Barangay Napnapan covered court. They also gave away shoes, mobile phones, watches, and balls for basketball and volleyball.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) also extended financial assistance through the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation program.

Congressman Ruwel Gonzaga, Board Member Ruwina Gonzaga, and former governor Arturo Uy were present during the event.

"Alam ko pong mahirap ang panahon ngayon pero magtiwala lang ho kayo sa gobyerno. Kayo po ang nagbibigay ng lakas sa amin upang makapagserbisyo pa po sa abot ng aming makakaya para malampasan natin ang krisis at sana po'y makabalik na tayo sa ating normal na pamumuhay," said Go.

Go also stressed the urgent need for a comprehensive and coordinated disaster management approach. He highlighted the importance of Senate Bill No. 188, which proposes the establishment of the Department of Disaster Resilience (DDR).

SBN 188 aims to consolidate all disaster-related agencies and functions into a single entity to streamline efforts and enhance disaster response efficiency. By elevating DDR to a Cabinet secretary-level department, the government can better allocate resources, develop improved disaster risk reduction strategies, and promptly aid affected communities, especially those from vulnerable sectors, cited Go.

"Dapat na may nakatutok talaga na may awtoridad at malinaw na mandato. Hindi na puwedeng laging task force na lang dahil temporary lang ito at nawawala ang continuity kapag nagpalit na ng administrasyon. Mahirap din kung mananatiling coordinating council lang ang mamamahala sa ganitong sitwasyon dahil sa kakulangan ng kapangyarihan nito," Go earlier explained.