THE House of Representatives extended assistance to Filipino workers affected by the November 26 fire at the Tai Po residential complex in Hong Kong, with Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs Chairman and Agimat Partylist Rep. Bryan Revilla visiting the victims over the weekend to convey the House’s sympathies and support.
“Kahit wala na po kayo sa ating bansa, nandito pa rin po kami para magbigay ng tulong sa inyo,” Revilla told the affected OFWs, noting that fires leave a deeper emotional impact than other calamities. Around 60 Filipino workers were displaced by the Tai Po fire.
Among those he visited was Rhodora Tañacao, who was recuperating in the hospital for smoke inhalation. Tañacao had just arrived in Hong Kong on November 26 and bravely stayed in the burning Tai Po complex to protect her infant ward until they were rescued.
Revilla hailed Tañacao’s heroism as reflective of the Filipino value of helping people wherever they may be.
Revilla undertook the visit upon the instructions of House Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III, who directed him to check on the OFWs’ wellbeing and extend the House’s assistance. Speaker Dy also authorized the release of financial assistance to each OFW affected by the fire, with the funds to be deposited directly into their accounts.
The Speaker’s office will likewise extend financial assistance to the family of Mary Ann Esteban, the OFW who perished in the incident. According to Revilla, the remains of Esteban shall be repatriated within the week to the Philippines at no cost to the family.
Aside from financial support, Revilla’s delegation also brought volunteer mental health experts to help the OFWs process any lingering trauma from the incident, as he stressed that “it is very important that we take care of not only our bodies, but also our spirit and our mind.”
Revilla thanked Hong Kong-based OFWs for inspiring him to do more and to push for additional legislation that will benefit the OFW community. He assured them that the House remains open to their concerns, including those that affect their families back home.
“Kung may kailangan po kayo, kung may concerns po kayo, please do let us know. We are here to help you.”
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