Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go has once again called for intensified fire prevention campaigns nationwide as his team delivered assistance to 19 fire-hit households in Barangay Tubod, Iligan City.
In his video message, the senator called on the national and local government to work closely together to efficiently enhance fire prevention initiatives in the country, particularly in fire-prone areas.
The lawmaker went on to reassure that through Republic Act 11589, which he primarily authored and co-sponsored, the Bureau of Fire Protection will be able to significantly improve its capability to respond to fire-related incidents.
It also mandates the BFP to undergo a ten-year modernization program which includes acquiring modern fire equipment, recruiting more firefighters, and developing specialized training, among others.
Held at Doña Josefa Elementary School, the team of Go provided snacks while the Department of Social Welfare and Development extended financial assistance.
Furthermore, Go’s team provided a cellular phone, shoes, and balls for volleyball and basketball to select individuals.
Go, as Chair of the Senate Committee on Health, also offered assistance to those in need of medical care. He encouraged them to visit Gregorio T. Lluch Memorial Hospital in the city or Kapatagan Provincial Hospital where there are Malasakit Centers available.
After witnessing the struggles of indigent Filipinos in securing medical assistance, Go initiated the Malasakit Centers program in 2018. The program was later institutionalized under RA 11463, which Go likewise principally authored and sponsored.
The Act mandates all hospitals managed and administered by the Department of Health to establish their own centers, bringing together relevant agencies that offer medical assistance programs. To date, there are 152 Malasakit Centers that have helped millions of Filipinos nationwide.