Laguna, Navotas fire victims get aid

Sen. Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go commiserated with and aided the victims of fire incidents in Barangay San Antonio, San Pedro City, Laguna, and Quiricada Street, Sta. Cruz, Manila yesterday where he distributed grocery packs and financial assistance.

In San Pedro City, where 164 houses were razed by the fire and 169 families were affected. Go said that aside from the food and financial aid he initially extended to the victims, he would also take care of the school supplies and uniforms of the affected children so that they can immediately resume school.

“For those who want to return to their provinces, I will give you your fare. Manila is now so crowded. In the province, there are wide open spaces and the air is fresh,” Go said.

As for the families who lost their homes, the senator said he has already coordinated with the National Housing Authority (NHA) regarding the relocation sites for them. On the other hand, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will provide livelihood assistance to eligible victims.

Go encouraged victims who were injured or those who need medical attention to avail of the services of the Malasakit Center, a one-stop shop hosting concerned government agencies that provide medical assistance to those in need.

The senator was accompanied by representatives from the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP), Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO), DTI, and Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to provide additional assistance to the residents.

On the other hand, Go downplayed the tag given to him as “superhero” for his continuing effort to visit disaster victims nationwide.

“Do not consider me a hero. I am just your public servant. Just treat me as your friend. I give you service 24 hours a day,” he said.

Go also asked government agencies to provide fast-track relocation to fire victims in Navotas.

During his visit yesterday, he distributed cash assistance and grocery packs to the victims of a fire at Fishport Market 3 in Barangay North Bay Boulevard South (NBBS), Navotas City last 18 October.

The victims also received additional assistance from concerned government agencies, such as the DSWD, DTI and NHA.