• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Bacolod City Rep. Alfredo Abelardo Benitez has extended a total of P2.339 million in financial assistance to the 236 families who lost their homes in a fire in Barangay 27 on Sept. 12.
An amount of P10,000 each was given to 217 homeowners, P5,000 each to 26 renters, and P3,000 each to sharers.
Councilor Caesar Distrito, spokesman of Benitez, said the financial assistance came from the personal funds of the lawmaker, who aims to help the fire victims recover by providing for their immediate needs.
“Congressman Benitez wants our affected families to have something they can use right away – food, clothes, or whatever their most urgent needs are. This is just the first step. Rebuilding lives and homes will take more time, but he will be with them every step of the way,” he added.
Distrito said Benitez also committed to seek further support from the national government and to provide additional food assistance to the fire victims.
For his part, the congressman highlighted the importance of clarifying the property ownership status in the affected area to facilitate a smooth and orderly rebuilding process.
Benitez said knowing the status of the land is key to determining how to best help the affected families rebuild their homes.
“No Bacolodnon should feel alone after a tragedy like this. I will make sure that every family is given a fair chance to start again,” said Benitez, who personally turned over the financial assistance to the fire victims over the weekend.
He lauded the barangay officials, city personnel, volunteers, and first responders for their quick action and compassion.
“This is a time for all of us to stand together. I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who worked tirelessly to keep the residents safe and assist them in the aftermath of the fire. Together, we will help these families rise again,” he added.
The 964 individuals left homeless by the fire are temporarily staying at Mabini Elementary School. | GB
