Senator Christopher “Bong” Go renewed his call for stronger fire prevention measures and improved disaster preparedness following a fatal fire incident in Anilao, Iloilo, emphasizing the importance of fully implementing laws that protect lives before tragedies occur.
According to Go, every fire-related death serves as a reminder that government must continue investing not only in emergency response but also in prevention and preparedness.
“Huwag po nating hintayin na may masawi bago tayo kumilos. Ang pinakamahalaga ay maprotektahan natin ang buhay at ari-arian ng ating mga kababayan sa pamamagitan ng mas matibay na fire prevention at disaster preparedness programs,” Go said in a message.
The senator highlighted Republic Act No. 11589, or the Bureau of Fire Protection Modernization Act of 2021, which he principally authored and co-sponsored. The law mandates a ten-year modernization program for the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), including the acquisition of modern firefighting equipment, additional fire stations and firefighter positions, enhanced personnel training, and intensified nationwide fire prevention campaigns in partnership with local government units.
He likewise reminded the public to observe basic fire safety measures, including avoiding illegal electrical connections, regularly inspecting electrical wiring, and practicing caution when cooking and using electrical appliances.
Beyond firefighting capabilities, Go underscored the importance of ensuring that families displaced by fires have access to safe and dignified temporary shelters.
The senator cited RA 12076, or the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act, which he principally authored and co-sponsored. The law mandates every city and municipality to establish permanent, disaster-resilient, and fully equipped evacuation centers for families affected by fires, typhoons, earthquakes, and other emergencies.
Recognizing that fire victims also face medical and financial challenges, Go likewise emphasized the importance of the Malasakit Centers. Go is the principal author and sponsor of RA 11463, or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which institutionalized the establishment of Malasakit Centers nationwide as one-stop shops that help indigent patients reduce their out-of-pocket hospital expenses through the coordinated assistance of government agencies.
According to the Department of Health, Iloilo currently hosts four Malasakit Centers located at the Western Visayas Medical Center, West Visayas State University Medical Center, Western Visayas Sanitarium and General Hospital, and Don Jose Monfort Medical Center.
As part of his continuing commitment to affected communities, Go dispatched his Malasakit Team on Tuesday, July 28, to extend assistance to the family of a resident who lost his life in the recent fire incident in Anilao.
The team provided financial assistance, grocery packs, water containers, flowers, and shirts to help the bereaved family cope with their immediate needs.
Expressing his condolences, Go encouraged the family to remain hopeful despite their loss.
“Huwag po kayong mawalan ng pag-asa. Magtulungan lang po tayo, sino ba naman ang magtutulungan kundi tayong kapwa Pilipino. Siguraduhin lang po natin na nag-iingat po tayo,” he said.
“Patuloy po akong magseserbisyo para sa inyo dahil naniniwala ako na ang kahandaan at malasakit ay susi sa pagliligtas ng buhay at sa mas mabilis na pagbangon ng bawat komunidad,” Go concluded.
