Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, through his Malasakit Team, extended aid to families affected by a fire incident in Barangay Pag-asa, Quezon City, on Friday, 10 October, as part of his continuing efforts to help victims of disasters recover and rebuild their lives.

In his message, Go emphasized that government aid should not stop at immediate relief but must include sustained interventions to help families regain stability and dignity through housing and infrastructure support.

He cited the Republic Act No. 12076, or the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act, which he principally authored and co-sponsored. The law mandates the establishment of disaster-resilient evacuation centers in every city and municipality nationwide.

“Napakalungkot pong makita ang ating mga kababayan na nagsisiksikan sa hindi angkop na lugar, gaya ng eskuwelahan na natitigil ang mga klase ng bata o sa covered courts na wala naman sapat na sanitation,” Go said.

“Dapat po mayroong komportable at maayos na mga evacuation center. Batas naman po ito. Mandato po ito ng batas na maglalagay ng mga evacuation center para naman po komportable ang ating mga kababayan,” he added.

Go also underscored the significance of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Modernization Act of 2021, which he likewise authored and co-sponsored, noting that it equips fire personnel to respond more effectively to similar emergencies.

During the event at Barangay Pag-asa Hall, the Malasakit Team engaged with residents, listening to their concerns and providing relief packs, food, vitamins, shirts, and sports equipment to 30 affected families.

“Huwag po kayong mawalan ng pag-asa. Ang gamit po, napapalitan, pero ang buhay ay hindi. A lost life is a lost life forever. Magtulungan lang po tayo, sino ba naman ang magtutulungan kundi tayo kapwa Pilipino,” Go said, stressing the bayanihan spirit during crises.

The senator also lauded the national government for assessing the victims to determine eligibility for the Emergency Housing Assistance Program (EHAP) to aid in rebuilding damaged homes.

To further address post-disaster housing challenges, Go has filed Senate Bill No. 415, which seeks to establish a Rental Housing Subsidy Program for disaster victims. If passed, the measure will grant temporary shelter assistance while families transition to permanent housing.

Local officials from Quezon City likewise participated in the event and provided additional aid to the affected residents.

“Bilang inyong Mr. Malasakit, anumang pagsubok ang ating haharapin sa susunod na mga araw, patuloy akong magseserbisyo sa inyong lahat dahil bisyo ko na ang magserbisyo at naniniwala ako na ang serbisyo sa tao ay serbisyo sa Diyos,” Go concluded.