BONG GO PROVIDES IMMEDIATE AID TO TYPHOON KRISTINE VICTIMS IN BULAN, SORSOGON

Known as Mr. Malasakit for his compassionate service to Filipinos in need, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has dispatched his Malasakit Team to provide aid to residents affected by Typhoon Kristine in Bulan, Sorsogon, on Thursday, October 31.

Highlighting the Philippines’ vulnerability to typhoons and other natural disasters, Go emphasized the need for stronger and improved resiliency measures starting at the local government level. He stressed the urgency of enhancing disaster preparedness and resilience to protect communities from the devastating effects of such calamities.

With this, Senator Go continues to advocate for his filed Senate Bill No. 188, also known as the Department of Disaster Resilience (DDR) Act. This proposed legislation seeks to establish a dedicated agency focused on developing communities that are adaptable, disaster-resilient, and secure.

“Layunin ng panukalang ito na mapalakas ang ating kakayahan sa disaster risk reduction, paghahanda, pagtugon sa emergencies, at mabilis na pagbangon pagkatapos ng mga kalamidad. Kung saka-sakaling maisabatas, magkakaroon po ng departamentong nakatutok na may cabinet-secretary level na timon. Hindi lang coordinating council o task force,” he explained.

“Ibig sabihin, ito na po ang makikipag-coordinate bago dumating ang bagyo, preposition of goods, and coordination with LGUs para ilikas po ang mga kababayan natin sa ligtas na lugar. At pag-alis ng bagyo ay restoration of normalcy kaagad at rehabilitation efforts para tuluy-tuloy po silang makabangon,” added Go.

In addition, Go is also pushing for Senate Bill No. 2451, the Ligtas Pinoy Centers bill, as one of its authors and co-sponsors. This bill passed its third reading in the Senate which aims to create permanent, fully equipped mandatory evacuation centers nationwide, significantly enhancing the country’s preparedness for future emergencies. By providing a haven during disasters, these centers will ensure that Filipinos have access to essential services, shelter, and support when they need it the most.

Moreover, Go filed SBN 192, which seeks to institutionalize a Rental Housing Subsidy Program. This proposed measure aims to develop a housing and social protection program that offers disaster victims better and more affordable access to the formal housing market through government-provided rental subsidies if enacted.

In coordination with Vice Mayor Chezka Robles, a total of 250 flood victims received fans, shirts, and foodpacks from Senator Go.

With this, Go reiterated his commitment to providing continued support to communities affected by Typhoon Kristine and other disasters, assuring the public that he will work tirelessly to improve policies and programs for disaster resiliency and response.

“Patuloy kaming magseserbisyo sa inyo dahil bisyo ko ang magserbisyo at ako ay naniniwala na ang serbisyo sa tao ay serbisyo ‘yan sa Panginoon, serbisyo ‘yan kay Allah,” underscored Go.