Press Release - Bong Go's Malasakit Team provides aid to fire victims in Mandaue City

The Malasakit Team of Senator Christopher "Bong" Go assisted fire victims in Sitio Under the Bridge, Barangay Looc, Mandaue City in Cebu, on Monday, March 18. During Fire Prevention Month, Go reminded the public to stay vigilant and enhance fire prevention awareness in communities.

Go highlighted the ongoing modernization program of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP). This ten-year program, mandated by Republic Act No. 11589, which Go primarily authored and co-sponsored, aims to enhance the BFP's capability to respond to fire emergencies and disasters. The program involves acquiring modern fire equipment, recruiting additional personnel, and providing specialized training for firefighters, among other initiatives.

"Mga kababayan ko, alam n'yo napakaimportante po ng buhay. Napakaimportante po ng kalusugan ng bawat isa. Ang gamit naman po ay nabibili natin. 'Yung pera po'y kikitain natin. Subalit 'yung perang kikitain natin ay hindi po nabibili ang buhay. Ang nawalang buhay po'y wala na talaga. A lost life is a lost life forever. Kaya mag-ingat po tayo palagi," underscored Go.

Go's Malasakit Team extended their support to fire victims by distributing snacks, grocery packs, water gallons, vitamins, masks, shirts, and balls for basketball and volleyball to 515 affected individuals.

Additionally, they handed out a mobile phone, bicycle, and shoes to select recipients. The team partnered with the local government of Mandaue City and Brgy. Looc for the activity.

Meanwhile, necessary livelihood and housing assistance await qualified beneficiaries as the Department of Trade and Industry and the National Housing Authority evaluated victims for their respective assistance programs.

Go also acknowledged Congresswoman Lollypop Ouano-Dizon, Mayor Jonas Cortes, and barangay Captain Kevin Cabahug, among others, for their service to their community.

The senator, Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, encouraged those needing medical assistance to visit the Malasakit Centers nearby, particularly in Eversley Childs Sanitarium and General Hospital in Mandaue City.

There are also three Malasakit Centers in Cebu City located at Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center,