SENATOR Christopher “Bong” Go, known as Mr. Malasakit for his commitment to his compassionate brand of public service, dispatched his Malasakit Team in Parañaque City on Thursday, June 13, to extend immediate assistance to affected families by a recent fire.
The senator’s Malasakit Team handed over aid packages to 323 families such as snacks, grocery packs, vitamins, masks, shirts, basketballs, and volleyballs, while some individuals also received shoes and a mobile phone.
Through a video message, Go offered words of encouragement to the victims, urging them not to lose hope despite the tragedy.
“Huwag po kayong mawalan ng pag-asa, ang importante ay buhay kayo. Ang gamit po ay napapalitan, ang pera ay kikitain pero ang pera ay hindi nabibili ang buhay. A lost life is a lost life forever. Kaya pangalagaan natin ang buhay na binigay sa atin ng Panginoon,” Go said.
Senator Go also lauded the swift response of the local government officials, including Barangay Sto. Niño Captain Johnny Co and barangay councilors, commending them for their immediate assistance to the affected households. The affected families likewise expressed their gratitude for the support and the senator’s commitment to their welfare.
“Kami po ay nagpapasalamat sa ating Senator Bong Go. Thank you, Senator Go sa malaking tulong na binigay niyo sa amin. Lalo na yung Malasakit Center. Thank you very much at mabuhay ka, Senator. God bless po sa inyo,” Brgy. Capt. Co expressed.
Senator Go then emphasized the importance of implementing robust fire prevention measures within the community to ensure the safety and efficiency of emergency responses in the future.
“While the government is always ready to support you in times of need, it is crucial for everyone to remain vigilant to avoid such incidents from happening again,” Go stated, highlighting the necessity of community involvement in fire prevention.
Acknowledging the relentless efforts of the country’s firefighters, Senator Go praised their sacrifices and immediate action during fire emergencies. He also took the opportunity to discuss the importance of Republic Act No. 11589 or the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Modernization Act of 2021.
“Through the BFP Modernization Act, we aim to mitigate the occurrence and severity of fire-related incidents in the country,” Go explained.
The law, primarily authored and co-sponsored by the senator, mandates a ten-year modernization program for the BFP. This program includes upgrading firefighting equipment, vehicles, communication systems, and other facilities to ensure the bureau is well-equipped to handle emergencies efficiently.
Furthermore, the law directs the BFP to conduct monthly fire prevention campaigns and information drives in partnership with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and local government units (LGUs). These initiatives are designed to raise public awareness and promote proactive measures in fire safety.
“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,” said Go, who is known as Mr. Malasakit for his compassionate service to Filipinos in need.