Sen. Bong Go reiterated the need for local authorities to strengthen fire safety and preparedness in their respective communities as his team mounted a relief activity for fire victims in Barangay Caniogan, Pasig City.
In his video conference call to the victims on Tuesday, August 9, Go mentioned that he primarily authored and co-sponsored Republic Act No. 11589, otherwise known as the Bureau of Fire Protection Modernization Act of 2021, to enable the agency to respond faster and more effectively to fire-related incidents in the country.
The law provides for a ten-year modernization program for BFP that includes procuring new fire equipment, expanding manpower, and conducting specialized training for firefighters, among others.
It also directs the agency to conduct monthly fire prevention campaigns and information drives in partnership with the Department of the Interior and Local Government and local government units.
“Importante po walang nasaktan, wala pong namatay, kasi ang gamit po’y nabibili natin. At Pilipino tayo, kilala tayong nagtutulungan,” Go encouraged.
“Ang pera po’y kikitain natin subalit ‘yung perang kikitain ay hindi po nabibili ang buhay. A lost life is a lost life forever kaya mag-ingat po kayo. Mga kababayan ko, magtulungan ho tayo at huwag ho kayong mawalan ng pag-asa… ang importante po buhay tayo,” he reiterated.
His team provided grocery packs, vitamins, masks, meals, and shirts to 16 affected families at the Bahay Aruga-CSWD Office, Pasig City Hall. They likewise gave bikes, phablets, shoes, and balls for volleyball and basketball to select individuals.