City releases P1.2M to fire victims

The Bacolod City government released on Tuesday P1.25 million worth of financial assistance to 117 families of fire victims at the Bacolod City College Gym.

Bacolod Mayor Greg Gasataya said the beneficiaries were victims of fire incidents in Brgy. 10 with 62 families, Brgy. 2 with 8 families, Brgy. Singcang with 11 families, Brgy. Alijis with 2 families, Brgy. Bata with 5 families, and Brgy. Banago with19 families.

Fire victims whose houses were totally damaged received P15,000, partially damaged P10,000, and sharers/renters P5,000.

Gasataya said he is in talks with barangay heads regarding the relocation site, as he directed the Bacolod Housing Authority to hasten development of remaining sites.

He said many fire victims have expressed willingness to be relocated based on his initial discussion with them over the weekend.

According to Gasataya, the financial assistance is not sufficient, “but at least, they have something to start with.”

Earlier, the city delivered corrugated sheets to the beneficiaries, and the financial aid could help them purchase other essential construction materials, the mayor said.

Ramon, not his real name, received P15,000 after his house, where he and his brother lived, was totally gutted by fire.

He expressed elation over the aid he received from the city in his desire to get himself and his brother a home.* (Lorenzo Lambatin Jr. / NDB text & photos)