Go distributes aid to Cebu fire victims

MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go has distributed financial assistance and relief goods to at least 500 families displaced in a fire that hit a community in Mandaue City, Cebu.

Go visited the fire victims on Saturday and promised to replace the school uniforms and supplies of students affected by the blaze that occurred on Nov. 14.

Officials of concerned government agencies such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor, National Housing Authority, Department of Labor and Employment, Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office and Department of Trade and Industry joined Go in distributing the aid to the families.

“The government agencies will help you cope from the tragedy so you can return to your normal lives,” Go told the fire victims.

He said he invited a representative from the DSWD who assessed and addressed the complaints of those who were having issues in claiming their social pensions or benefits from the DSWD. 

Go assured those who need medical attention that the government is always willing to help them.

He advised the victims to go to the nearest Malasakit Center and request for medical assistance.

A Malasakit Center at the Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center in Cebu City is available to assist patients in the area and nearby towns, especially those who need to consult with medical specialists. 

“We have 51 Malasakit Centers all over the country. We plan to establish 73  more in all DOH-run hospitals,”  Go said.

He expressed hope that President Duterte would sign the Malasakit Center Act this year.