Government officials from Senator Bong Go’s office and DTI-Laguna provide relief assistance and introduce livelihood recovery programs to fire victims at Santa Cruz public market, highlighting the Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginhawa initiative and collaborative disaster response efforts.

SANTA CRUZ, LAGUNA – May 30, 2025 – In a concerted effort to bring hope and tangible assistance to those affected by the recent fire incident at the Santa Cruz Public Market, the Office of Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, in close collaboration with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) – Laguna Provincial Office, reached out to victims through a support mission conducted on-site. The initiative brought much-needed relief to affected vendors and underscored the government’s ongoing commitment to disaster response and livelihood recovery.

During the outreach, Senator Go’s representative, Mr. Leo Palo, personally conveyed the senator’s message of solidarity, compassion, and hope to the victims. “Senator Bong Go extends his deepest sympathies to all those affected by the fire. We understand how devastating this loss is, not only to your livelihoods but to your sense of security. Please know that you are not alone—government agencies and public servants are working hand-in-hand to help you rise again,” Palo said in a brief message during the gathering.

In addition to offering moral encouragement, Senator Go’s team also provided essential relief assistance including food packs, hygiene items, and other immediate necessities aimed at easing the burden of the victims during their recovery.

The Department of Trade and Industry – Laguna Provincial Office likewise took the opportunity to introduce the Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginhawa (PPG) program, a government initiative specifically designed to help micro-entrepreneurs and individuals who have been affected by calamities, including fires, natural disasters, and pandemics.

Provincial Director Christian Ted O. Tungohan led the presentation of the PPG program, emphasizing DTI’s unwavering support for disaster-stricken communities. “Our goal is not just to provide assistance today, but to help you rebuild your businesses and your confidence. The PPG program is here to offer that stepping stone as you begin the journey of recovery,” said Tungohan.

The program offers qualified beneficiaries livelihood kits or capital assistance to help them restart or strengthen their small businesses. During the activity, representatives from Negosyo Center Santa Cruz and Negosyo Center Pagsanjan explained the eligibility criteria, application process, and documentation requirements for those interested in becoming PPG beneficiaries.

The fire incident, which caused significant damage to multiple stalls and affected dozens of local vendors, served as a painful disruption to the community’s economic activity. Many of the affected individuals are long-time micro-entrepreneurs whose daily income sustains their families.

However, the collective response by national and local government agencies, including the Office of Senator Go and DTI-Laguna, serves as a testament to the importance of collaborative public service in times of crisis. Attendees of the event expressed their gratitude for the assistance and guidance extended to them and welcomed the opportunity to rebuild their businesses with renewed hope and government support.

Government officials from Senator Bong Go’s office and DTI-Laguna provide relief assistance and introduce livelihood recovery programs to fire victims at Santa Cruz public market, highlighting the Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginhawa initiative and collaborative disaster response efforts.
Government officials from Senator Bong Go’s office and DTI-Laguna provide relief assistance and introduce livelihood recovery programs to fire victims at Santa Cruz public market, highlighting the Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginhawa initiative and collaborative disaster response efforts.
Government officials from Senator Bong Go’s office and DTI-Laguna provide relief assistance and introduce livelihood recovery programs to fire victims at Santa Cruz public market, highlighting the Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginhawa initiative and collaborative disaster response efforts.

The event concluded with the distribution of relief packages and initial screening of potential PPG beneficiaries. DTI-Laguna assured the victims that the department, through its Negosyo Centers and local government partners, would continue to provide support in the weeks and months ahead.

This initiative reflects the Philippine government’s broader commitment to inclusive recovery, livelihood resilience, and people-centered service delivery, ensuring that no Filipino is left behind in the aftermath of tragedy.

For more information on the Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginhawa Program, please contact:

DTI-Laguna Provincial Office
Email: r04.laguna@arlene_isms
Website: https://www.facebook.com/DTI.LagunaProvince

For media inquiries related to the Office of Senator Bong Go, please contact:

Office of Senator Bong Go
Website: https://www.facebook.com/senatorbonggo

(Flores, Lawrence | DTI-Laguna) ♦

Date of Release: 10 July 2025