A female janitor of Felipe Calderon High School who risked her life to rescue three students trapped inside a restroom during a fire last March was honored by the Manila Department of Social Welfare (MDSW) and was extended cash assistance.
MDSW Director Jay R. Dela Fuente during his visit to the RASAC Covered Court in Barangay 334 (Photo courtesy of the Manila Department of Social Welfare)
MDSW Director Jay R. Dela Fuente personally handed over the financial aid and a sack of rice to the janitor’s family after receiving reports of her heroic actions.
“Isang pagpupugay ito sa isang tunay na Manileñang nagpakita ng malasakit at katapangan sa gitna ng panganib (This is a tribute to a true Manileña who showed compassion and courage in the face of danger)," said Dela Fuente.
Although the incident occurred several months ago, the MDSW made sure that the janitor’s selfless deed will be recognized.
“Bagama’t ilang buwan na ang lumipas, nang mapag-alaman namin ang ginawa niyang sakripisyo, agad naming dinalhan ng tulong ang kanyang pamilya,” (Even though months have passed, once we learned about her sacrifice, we immediately brought assistance to her family) Dela Fuente added.
Manila Mayor Francisco "Isko Moreno" Domagoso directed Dela Fuente to hold a dialogue with parents of children enrolled at the daycare center located beside the recently demolished RASAC Covered Court in Barangay 334.
Domagoso gave assurance that the learning of the children will not be disrupted.
“Gusto kong iparating sa inyo na hindi kasama sa gigibain ang daycare center. Magpapatuloy ang klase ng inyong mga anak,” (I want to assure you that the daycare center will not be demolished. Your children’s classes will continue) Domagoso told the parents.
He also clarified that services for the elderly will remain unaffected.
“Mananatili rin ang opisina ng Senior Citizens sa loob ng gusali. Hindi rin ito gigibain (The Senior Citizens' Office inside the building will also remain. It will not be demolished),” he added.
“Maayos ang naging usapan. Naiintindihan ng mga magulang ang plano ng lungsod (The discussion went smoothly. The parents understood the city’s plan),” said Dela Fuente.,
The MDSW distributed food packs, jogging pants, and hygiene kits to the parents who attended the meeting to further support the families.
The Manila city government reiterated its commitment to prioritizing the welfare and safety of children and their families in all barangays.