Bong Go visits Davao fire-hit families, distributes aid

DAVAO CITY — Senator Christopher “Bong” Go visited Barangay 76-A on Friday, 13 February, to check on families displaced by a recent fire and to distribute immediate assistance.

During the visit, Go met with residents affected by the fire, who lost homes and belongings. He distributed financial aid and relief packages that included groceries, water containers, shirts, pens, foldable fans, snacks, vitamins, and sports equipment such as basketballs and volleyballs for local youth. Some beneficiaries also received bicycles, mobile phones, watches, and shoes.

A total of 199 families received assistance during the visit. Local officials, including Barangay Captain Robert Elnar Olanolan and several barangay kagawads, helped coordinate the distribution.

Go highlighted Republic Act No. 12076, which mandates the establishment of safe and disaster-resilient evacuation centers in municipalities and cities nationwide. He also referenced Republic Act No. 11589, which provides for a ten-year modernization program for the Bureau of Fire Protection, including additional personnel, equipment, and training to improve fire response and disaster operations.

The senator has also filed Senate Bill No. 192, which proposes a Rental Housing Subsidy Program to provide temporary shelter for displaced families.

On his way to the fire site, Go made brief stops to interact with local children selling fish and small roadside vendors.

The visit focused on immediate relief efforts and encouraged coordination among local offices to support displaced residents as they begin rebuilding.