Go brings aid, hope to Malabon fire victims

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go personally visited fire victims in Barangays Maysilo and Tañong, Malabon City, on Friday, February 20, reaffirming his commitment to disaster-affected communities, accessible health infrastructure, and the welfare of Filipinos. He and his team distributed assistance to families and offered support for their recovery.

Speaking to residents, Go highlighted the importance of strengthening local health services, especially in densely populated areas like Malabon City. He also cited his role in the construction and improvement of hospital facilities in the city.

“The hospital here in Malabon City was recently inaugurated. As chair of the Senate Committee on Health from 2019 to 2025, I fought to make sure you have a new building for your hospital here,” Go said.

“This hospital is important, especially in Malabon. Houses are so close together here, and you really need your own hospital. Going to Manila is so congested, right? Now you have somewhere to go locally,” he added.

Go has been instrumental in transforming San Lorenzo Ruiz General Hospital into a modern, 200-bed facility. He was present at the groundbreaking in Panghulo, Malabon City, on 29 January 2019, alongside then-President Rodrigo Duterte, and helped secure funding for the hospital’s expansion following the enactment of Republic Act 11289, which converted it from a 10-bed women’s hospital into a general hospital. The new six-story building was inaugurated on 29 September 2025.

“For me, the health of every Filipino is equal to their life. That’s why we must prioritize the health of every Filipino,” Go said, acknowledging the efforts of local officials present.

Go began his visit at the evacuation center in Barangay Catmon, assisting 66 fire victims from Barangay Maysilo. He personally handed out cash aid, food items, fans, vitamins, containers, clothing, sports equipment, shoes, watches and bicycles, while encouraging resilience and public service. Before leaving, he bought all the turon being sold by a young boy so the child could go home early to his family, reminding everyone to support local vendors.

At Barangay Tañong, Go visited 111 fire victims and conducted another round of aid distribution, offering similar assistance packages.

 “To those affected by fire, don’t lose hope. Material things can be replaced, money can be earned, but life cannot be bought. A lost life is lost forever. What’s important is that we are alive. Let’s help each other and not lose hope,” he said, noting that the local government and agencies would explore housing assistance programs.