Go brings aid to Baclaran fire victims

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go on Saturday, 28 June, personally visited Barangay Baclaran in Parañaque City to assist 58 families affected by a recent fire.

Speaking to victims and residents, Go underscored the importance of compassion, cooperation, and accessible public services during times of crisis.

“Clothes can be washed. Belongings can be bought — and in Baclaran, you can buy almost anything,” he said in Filipino. “But life? You can't buy that with money. A life lost is lost forever. What matters most is that we are alive — we must help each other and take care of the life given to us by the Lord.”

Go shared that Baclaran holds a special place in his heart, recalling how his aunt used to attend Mass at the local shrine. “Baclaran has always been close to my heart. As a child, I’d hear about it from my aunt who went to Mass here every Wednesday… The Lord will never abandon us,” he said.

To provide immediate relief, Go’s Malasakit Team distributed financial assistance, food, grocery packs, water containers, clothing, sports items, bicycles, and shoes. “I brought a little help for you — some food and groceries, just a little something for dinner,” he added.

He also thanked local officials, including Barangay Captain Jun Zaide and SK Chairwoman Kate Lazaga Mangahas, for their continued support to affected residents. “All I ask is that you never neglect our fellow citizens when they fall victim to fire or illness. Let’s help them.”

Go highlighted the importance of the Bureau of Fire Protection Modernization Act of 2021, which he authored and co-sponsored. He also pointed to Republic Act No. 12076, or the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act, which mandates the creation of disaster-resilient evacuation centers across all cities and municipalities.

Addressing long-term needs, Go renewed his push for Senate Bill No. 192, which seeks to provide a rental housing subsidy to fire-affected families transitioning to permanent homes.

During his visit, Go also extended on-the-spot medical assistance — including hospital referrals and mobility aids — to individuals in need. “There was a patient earlier with diabetes and a fever. I told them I’d bring him to the hospital. Let’s help each other… another patient had suffered a stroke, so we brought crutches.”

He reminded the public of the Malasakit Centers, including one at the Ospital ng Parañaque, which provide medical aid to indigent patients. “If you have a patient in need of help, that is your right. That’s your money — you can get medical assistance from any Malasakit Center.”

Go is the principal author of the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019. To date, 167 centers have been established nationwide, helping more than 17 million Filipinos, according to the Department of Health.

He also cited the ongoing construction of two Super Health Centers in Baclaran and Moonwalk. These facilities aim to provide primary healthcare services, early disease detection, and free consultations through PhilHealth’s Konsulta program.

In addition, Go cited his authorship of the Regional Specialty Centers Act, which mandates the establishment of cancer and heart centers in regional DOH hospitals. “This means patients in the provinces won’t have to travel far for treatment.”

Before ending his visit, Go spontaneously gifted his wristwatch to a differently abled individual. “I will never waste the opportunity you gave me. I will work for the Filipino people. That’s what I can offer — my dedication to service.”