The bereaved families of the five rescuers in Bulacan who died amid the onslaught of Typhoon “Karding” received a copy of House Resolution No. 16 recognizing their heroism and bravery on Tuesday, Oct. 11.
House Speaker Martin Romualdez presented the copy of the resolution to the next of kin of deceased rescuers Narciso Calayag Jr., Jerson Resurreccion, Marby Bartolome, George Agustin, and Troy Justin Agustin.
“The five rescuers gave their lives in the service of others, thus, they are worthy of commendation and emulation by all Filipinos as they exuded heroism, patriotism, bravery, and dedication to public service,” the resolution read.
The five men, who came from different towns in Bulacan, were rescue personnel of the Bulacan Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO). They were struck by a flash flood while in San Miguel town.
Romualdez received the families of the fallen rescuers in his office, where they were also given financial assistance.
He expressed once again his gratitude and admiration for the dedication to duty of the emergency responders.
READ: House honors 5 fallen Bulacan rescuers
“We will not forget your sacrifice and heroism. We will keep you in our prayers,” Romualdez said.
Resurreccion’s wife, Michelle, spoke on behalf of the bereaved families to thank the House of Representatives and everyone who helped them.
She also took the opportunity to appeal to the lawmakers to provide better benefits for all personnel tasked to respond to emergency situations and during calamities.
“Kung ang buhay po ng lima naming mahal sa buhay ang magiging kapalit upang mapabuti ang mga nagbubuwis ng buhay sa panahon ng sakuna ay buong puso namin tatanggapin basta po sana hindi mawalan ng saysay ang kanilang sakripisyo (If the lives of our five loved ones would be in exchange for the better welfare of those who risk their lives in times of disasters, we will wholeheartedly accept it as long as their sacrifice will not be in vain),” she said.
Michelle was joined by Ferdinar Calayag, brother of Narciso Calayag Jr.; Minha Bartolome, wife of Marby Bartolome; Jessa Agustin, wife of Troy Agustin, and Imelda Agustin, wife of George Agustin; among others.
The Speaker said that his office, in partnership with Tingog party-list Rep. Yedda Marie Romualdez, would provide assistance to the families of the Bulacan rescuers that includes medical and burial, laptops, scholarship grant, job opportunities, and livelihood program packages.