Kuya Bong aids Parañaque fire victims

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go personally visited Barangay Baclaran last 28 June to assist families affected by a recent fire. Speaking directly to victims and residents as he underscored the importance of compassion, community cooperation and accessible public services, especially during times of need.

“Clothes can be washed, right? Things can be bought. Here in Baclaran, we can buy many things, right? But life cannot be bought with money. A lost life is a lost life forever,” Go told the crowd. “What’s important is that we are alive — let’s just help each other and take care of the life given by the Lord.”

Recounting a personal connection to Baclaran, Go shared childhood memories of his aunt who regularly attended Mass at the shrine. “You know, Baclaran is close to my heart. Since I was a child, I’ve heard about Baclaran from my aunt because she used to attend Mass here every Wednesday... the Lord will not abandon us.”

To provide immediate relief, Go and his Malasakit Team distributed financial assistance, meals, grocery packs, water containers, shirts, basketballs and volleyballs to the 58 affected families. Select beneficiaries also received a bicycle and shoes.

“I just brought a little help for you... I brought food, groceries... just a little dinner for you later,” said the senator.

Go also recognized local officials present during the visit, including barangay captain Jun Zaide, kagawad Sean Sanciego, kagawad Clint Calinisan, SK chairwoman Kate Lazaga Mangahas and barangay secretary Joseph Lim. He emphasized the vital role of barangay leaders in emergency response and community care.

“I only have one request for you — don’t neglect our countrymen whenever there’s a fire or illness. Let’s help them,” Go said.

He also highlighted the importance of the Bureau of Fire Protection Modernization Act of 2021, which he principally authored and co-sponsored. According to Go, the measure plays a critical role in equipping fire personnel to respond more effectively to emergencies like the one in Baclaran.

In support of public safety efforts, Go pointed to Republic Act 12076, or the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act, which he also principally authored and co-sponsored. The law mandates the establishment of safe and resilient evacuation centers in every municipality and city nationwide.

Looking ahead, Go reiterated his commitment to addressing housing challenges in fire-affected communities. He cited his filed Senate Bill No. 192, which proposes to establish a Rental Housing Subsidy Program that would provide temporary shelter assistance while affected families transition to permanent housing if passed into law.

Reinforcing his broader public service agenda, Go continued to demonstrate his commitment to public service by responding to individual medical appeals. During the event, he offered on-the-spot aid such as crutches and assisted in providing access to hospital referrals for those in need.

“Earlier, there was a patient there — with diabetes, fever. I said, I’ll take her to the hospital. Let’s help each other... there was a stroke patient. We brought crutches,” the lawmaker said.

He reminded residents of the availability of medical aid from Malasakit Centers for poor and indigent patients, highlighting the one located at the Ospital ng Parañaque. Go is the principal author and sponsor of RA 11463, or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which institutionalized the program.