On July 14-15, 2023, Representative Elizaldy Co of Ako Bicol Party List, along with TV host Willie Revillame, Rep. Joey Salceda, Rep. Sam Verzosa, Rep. Jil Bongalon, and former Rep. Christopher "Kito" Co, extended relief aid and brought joy to the evacuees at Gabawan Evacuation Center in Daraga, Albay; San Andres Evacuation Center in Sto. Domingo, Albay; San Antonio Elementary School Multi-Purpose Building, Tabaco, Albay, and Bariw Covered Court, Brgy. Bariw, Camalig, Albay.
AKO Bicol Party-list Rep. Elizaldy Co has teamed up with Willie “Kuya Will” Revillame to deliver laughter and inspiration to evacuees, who were forced to leave their homes amid the unrest of Mayon Volcano.
Co tapped the help of the beloved TV personality, believing that bringing another kind of relief – cheers and encouragement – to evacuees that are beyond food packs is also important to help his constituents endure despite the difficulties of living in evacuation sites.
Co led relief operations in this province from July 14-15 at four evacuation sites: Gabawan Evacuation Center in Daraga, accommodating 600 residents from Brgy. Matnog; San Andres Evacuation Center in Sto. Domingo, housing 1,588 residents from Barangays Fidel Surtida, Sta. Misericordia, and San Fernando; San Antonio Elementary School Multi-Purpose Building in Tabaco, sheltering 500 evacuees; and Bariw Covered Court in Brgy. Bariw, Camalig, hosting 545 displaced persons due to Mayon’s restlessness.
“The relief operation not only aimed to give food packs but also to uplift the spirits of those affected by the recent unrest of Mayon Volcano,” said Co, chair of the House Committee on Appropriations.
“In times of crisis, it is crucial to address the immediate needs of those affected, but it is equally important to provide them with moments of respite and inspiration,” he also said.
Co recognized the power of entertainment in times of adversity, and so he approached Revillame to share his infectious energy and enthusiasm with the evacuees.
Revillame graciously accepted the invitation, marking his return to the spotlight.
The weekend gathering proved to be a memorable experience for the evacuees as Revillame’s infectious laughter and charisma created an atmosphere of joy and hope.
“I deeply appreciate Kuya Wil’s willingness to lend his time and energy to uplift the spirits of the evacuees. His presence brought immense joy and inspiration to everyone,” Co said, stressing the significance of collective efforts to assist communities and foster resilience.
“It is heartwarming to witness how the power of entertainment can create a positive impact on the lives of those facing difficulties,” he added.
CO VOWS TO IMPROVE EVACUATION SITES
The lawmaker then pledged to work for the improvement of conditions at evacuation sites through an initiative that will offer comfort to displaced persons during calamities.
“I am determined to address the shortcomings of our current evacuation sites and uplift the living conditions of our fellow Bicolanos. Nobody should have to endure extreme discomfort when seeking refuge during calamities,” Co said in a speech during a relief operation in Brgy. Bariw, Camalig.
He said that he has in his mind a comprehensive strategy to enhance evacuation sites throughout the Bicol Region.
This comprehensive plan encompasses the incorporation of amenities such as air-conditioning units and effective ventilation systems. Moreover, it includes the establishment of barangay health clinics within these sites, enabling evacuees to promptly receive necessary health check-ups and care, he noted.
