Fire in built environment

SEN. Bong Go urged the public to intensify disaster preparedness and fire safety measures as his team provided aid to families displaced by a fire at the San Dionisio Covered Court in Parañaque City.
The fire affected at least 35 families, prompting the senator’s office to launch immediate relief efforts.
Go’s team distributed financial assistance, grocery packs, snacks, vitamins, shirts, children’s balls, and water containers to help residents meet their immediate needs. Selected beneficiaries also received additional support, including pairs of shoes.
In a video call with victims, Go urged resilience and unity in the face of adversity.
“Don’t lose hope. Let’s work together — who else can help but us, fellow Filipinos? Let’s make sure we are careful,” he said.
Pushing for modernization and preparedness, Go highlighted the importance of strengthening institutional capacity for disaster response, citing his role in authoring and co-sponsoring Republic Act (RA) 11589.
The measure mandates a 10-year modernization program for the Bureau of Fire Protection, including upgraded equipment, enhanced training, additional personnel, and nationwide fire prevention campaigns in coordination with local government units.
He also underscored the need to fully implement RA 12076, which requires establishing permanent, disaster-resilient evacuation centers in every city and municipality nationwide.
These centers should not be temporary or overcrowded spaces but purpose-built facilities capable of withstanding disasters and equipped with essential health, sanitation and safety features.
The senator stressed that effective disaster preparedness depends on strong coordination between government agencies and communities, as well as investments in skilled responders, resilient infrastructure, and accessible health care services.
“I will continue to serve you because it is my habit to serve, and I believe that service to people is service to God,” Go said.
Local authorities have yet to release a full damage assessment of the Parañaque fire, while affected families continue to recover and rebuild their lives.