As an aid to the families whose houses were burned in the fire incident that happened in Barangay Gen. T. De Leon last January 14, the City Government of Valenzuela led by Mayor WES Gatchalian and the Office of Senator WIN Gatchalian granted the fire victims with financial assistance at Bitik Elementary School, January 18.

Each family temporarily staying in the evacuation site received cash assistance from the local government. PHP 10,000 for the families whose houses were completely damaged, while the families’ houses that were partially damaged received PHP 7,000 each. In addition, Senator WIN's office also gave PHP 5,000 per family.

In the bargain, the cash support they received is their fueling boost to find a place to live or purchase materials for the rebuilding of their damaged houses.

The recent fire in Barangay Gen. T. De Leon resulted in the loss of homes for 74 families. Although there were no reported deaths or injuries in the said incident, it is estimated that property damage totaled PHP 200,000.

Aside from the cash aid, the Department of Welfare and Development Office (DSWD) also handed out Family Kits – which contained clothes for children and adults, slippers, bath towels, underwear, and short pants.

Mayor WES Gatchalian personally visited the fire victims to see what other help the local government can provide. In his short message during the payout, he said, “Alam kong mabigat po ang pakiramdam na mawalan ng mga kagamitan, pero ang importante sa lahat ay buhay tayo – ang ating mga anak ay buhay, ang ating mga magulang, pati po ang mga senior citizen po natin ay nasa maayos pong kalagayan. Ang iba pong pangangailangan na materyal, ‘wag po kayong mag-alala [dahil] nandito po ang lokal na pamahalaan na palagi pong sumusuporta sa inyo.” [I know it feels heavy to lose properties, but the most important thing is that we are alive – our children are alive, our parents, even our senior citizens are in good condition. For the other materials needed, don't worry [because] the local government is here to always support you.]

Meanwhile, Councilors Niña Lopez, Louie Nolasco, Mickey Pineda, Chiqui Carreon, Gerald Galang, and Jonjon Bartolome also showed their support by setting up food stalls that offer free hot meals, snacks, and refreshments.

For the time being, the fire victims will be allowed to stay in the said evacuation center until January 20, 2023, while the city government continues to provide them with necessities that will aid their recovery.

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