BAGUIO CITY — Senators Alan Peter Cayetano and Pia Cayetano stepped forward this week to assist the residents of Baguio in their recovery efforts following a devastating fire and the recent onslaught of Typhoon Betty.

Through their Emergency Response Department (ERD) initiative, the senators provided much-needed financial assistance to hundreds of affected individuals.

The beneficiaries of their assistance numbered 400 and included vendors and laborers from the fire-damaged Baguio Public Market, as well as residents impacted by Typhoon Betty.

Working in collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare and Development-CAR (DSWD-CAR) and Baguio City’s local government led by Representative Mark Go of the Lone District, the Cayetanos’ ERD team ensured that each beneficiary received the necessary support.

Expressing her gratitude, Lilia Tiongson, one of the fire victims, emphasized the significance of this assistance in helping vendors like herself rebuild their lives.

Another beneficiary, Consorcia Domingo, a 68-year-old homemaker whose house suffered damage from a landslide caused by Typhoon Betty, expressed her intention to utilize the aid received for repairing her damaged residence.

The financial constraints arising from a lack of income had hindered her ability to undertake the necessary repairs.

In addition to their efforts in assisting fire and typhoon victims, the Cayetanos also extended their help to indigent patients in Baguio through the establishment of a dedicated help desk.

Adelyn Ano, a beneficiary of this initiative, shared her family’s challenging circumstances after her father-in-law’s heart attack, which necessitated an expensive heart bypass surgery.

Ano, who manages a small family-owned business, expressed her gratitude as their income proved insufficient to cover the mounting hospital bills.

Sol, wife of Representative Go, pledged to work alongside the Cayetanos on behalf of her husband, ensuring continued collaboration for the betterment of Baguio City.

The ERD, an integral part of the Bayanihan Caravan, exemplifies the Cayetanos’ commitment to providing assistance to various sectors across the country.

The initiative continues to make significant strides in helping communities rebuild and recover in times of adversity.

The love and care demonstrated by Senators Alan Peter and Pia Cayetano for the people of Baguio City have left an indelible mark on the affected residents, instilling hope and solidarity within the community.