Malasakit team aids ‘Opong’ victims

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go’s Malasakit Team extended assistance to families affected by tropical storm “Opong” in Masbate City on Wednesday.

In coordination with Masbate City Councilor Chester Du, the team distributed food packs, shirts, foldable fans, and sports equipment such as basketballs and volleyballs to 200 beneficiaries.

To provide comfort to displaced residents, the team also served warm bowls of lugaw to evacuees.

According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, Masbate was among the provinces most severely affected by the storm.

In the aftermath, Go renewed his appeal for the construction of permanent evacuation centers in all towns and cities — a mandate under Republic Act 12076 or the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act, which he authored and co-sponsored.

Go lamented that schools, gymnasiums, and covered courts are often converted into temporary shelters, forcing families to live in cramped and unsanitary conditions.

“It’s heartbreaking to see our countrymen crammed into unsuitable places — like schools where classes are disrupted or covered courts that lack proper sanitation,” Go said.

The senator also underscored the vital role of frontliners and emergency personnel who risk their lives during calamities.

“In every disaster, there are people who quietly work to save and help others, even at the expense of their own safety. We must recognize their sacrifice,” he said.

To this end, Go filed Senate Bill No. 669, which seeks to grant hazard pay to all qualified responders directly involved in disaster operations — particularly those deployed in high-risk areas.

“This isn’t just about giving aid — it’s also about honoring the true heroes behind every relief effort,” he emphasized.

Go also renewed his push for the creation of a Department of Disaster Resilience, which he refiled in the 20th Congress. The proposed department aims to unify disaster risk reduction, preparedness, response, and rehabilitation under one dedicated agency.

“We will continue to serve because service is my passion,” Go said. “I believe that serving the people is serving God — and serving Allah.”