Senator Christopher “Bong” Go visited Barangay 76-A recently to provide relief to 199 families displaced by a recent fire, using the site visit to advocate for stronger national disaster infrastructure.

Go distributed financial assistance and grocery packs to the affected residents. The aid packages included water containers, clothing, vitamins, and sports equipment for the local youth. A few selected beneficiaries also received bicycles, mobile phones, watches and shoes.

During the visit, Go highlighted the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act (Republic Act 12076), which he co-sponsored.

The law mandates the creation of disaster-resilient evacuation centers in every city and municipality to prevent the common practice of using schools or open-air courts as temporary shelters.

“It is saddening to see our countrymen crowded into unsuitable places, like schools where classes are disrupted or covered courts without proper sanitation,” Go said.

The senator also cited the Bureau of Fire Protection Modernization Act (RA 11589), a 10-year program aimed at hiring more firefighters and procuring modern equipment. Additionally, he discussed Senate Bill No. 192, his proposal for a Rental Housing Subsidy Program to help displaced families transition to permanent housing more quickly.

While traveling to the site, Go made brief stops to interact with roadside vendors and children selling fish, emphasizing the importance of education and supporting local small-scale enterprises.

“Do not lose hope. Belongings can be replaced, but life cannot,” Go told the residents, urging a spirit of communal unity.

Go expressed his appreciation to barangay captain Robert Elnar Olanolan and other local officials for coordinating the distribution. He reaffirmed his commitment to public service, stating that addressing the needs of disaster victims remains a top priority.