SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union – The provincial government has provided assistance to more than 1,150 registered stall owners affected by the fire that razed a public wet market in Barangay Ilocanos Sur here this week.
VENDORS affected by the fire that razed a public market in San Fernando City, La Union temporarily sell on a nearby street. (City government of San Fernando, La Union FB)
Gov. Raphaelle Veronica “Rafy” Ortega-David handed over aid to the beneficiaries and also extended 1,000 family food and lunch packs to fire victims and provided psychosocial support to 359 affected families.
Mayor Hermenigildo “Dong” Gualberto here said the city government is in the process of providing immediate relief assistance to the victims.
Gualberto said the victims will also receive financial assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-Region 1.
He asked all barangay chairpersons near the market to allot a space in their road network to serve as temporary stall for vendors.
Gualberto said that they are carefully studying the construction of a new public market within six months.
David ordered the provincial government to help manage the aftermath of the fire.
The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) and Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office have coordinated with the city government to ensure the safety and well-being of victims.
David instructed concerned departments to coordinate long-term recovery plans for this city.
The provincial government has called for #LaUnionPROBINSYAnihan or community cooperation through donations and continuous prayer and support for victims.
Monetary contributions and non-perishable items are welcome and can be coursed through the City DRRMO and City Treasury.
Fire Chief Insp. Jun Wanawan, city fire marshal, said they are currently collecting surveillance footages near the market as part of their ongoing investigation on the source and cause of the fire.
Wanawan said that no injury or fatality were reported in the fire but damage to property was placed at P200 million.