Go calls for passage of fire protection bill

MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Bong Go has reiterated his call for the passage of Senate Bill 204 or the Fire Protection Modernization Bill.

Go issued the call in a video message during the distribution of relief and financial assistance to fire victims in Barangay 62 Sagkahan in Tacloban on Friday.

The committee report on the bill will be sponsored this week by Sen. Ronald dela Rosa, chairman of the Senate committee on public order.

Senate Bill 204, which Go authored, seeks to establish a fire protection modernization program to be implemented by the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), including hiring of additional personnel, acquisition of modern fire equipment and trainings for firefighters.

The bill also mandates the BFP to conduct monthly fire prevention campaigns and information drive in local government units, particularly in informal settlements and depressed areas.

Go and his team distributed food packs, face masks, face shields, meals and cash assistance to fire victims.

Eight families composed of 29 individuals benefitted from the aid.

He said the Duterte administration would always prioritize the welfare of those who need government attention the most, particularly the poor and the vulnerable sectors.

He said that in these trying times, it is important for Filipinos to cooperate with the government in the spirit of bayanihan and continue to show compassion for others.