Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go underscored his unwavering commitment to support communities hit by disasters as he lent a helping hand to those affected by typhoon “Egay” in Dinalupihan, Bataan, on Saturday, August 12.
The assistance was carried out at the respective barangay halls of Tucop, Old San Jose, Payangan, and Mabini Extension, where Go’s team distributed food packs to 250 town residents affected by floods. The relief activity was in partnership with Councilor Gary David.
The senator voiced his determination to enhance the country’s disaster preparedness and response strategies. Go is the proponent of Senate Bill No. 188, also known as the Department of Disaster (DDR) Bill. He introduced this legislation with the aim of creating a unique agency exclusively concentrating on disaster risk reduction and management.
Through the establishment of a specialized institution, the bill intends to make disaster management more efficient and boost the country’s capability to handle future emergencies effectively.
Go also stressed that founding a devoted department for disaster resilience would not only heighten collaboration but would also offer a formalized mechanism for responding to crises, equipped with a more defined mandate, authority, expertise, and resources.
The Office of Civil Defense has recently voiced its support for the establishment of the DDR, emphasizing the importance of such institution in improving operations in managing and responding to future crises.
Image credits: Bibo Nueva España/Senate PRIB