By CESAR JOLITO III

Families displaced by a recent fire in Barangay 39 received immediate relief after Bacolod City Lone District Representative Alfredo Abelardo Benitez personally distributed nearly P1 million in cash assistance to affected residents, underscoring a swift response to the emergency while advancing longer-term recovery plans.

Benitez handed out P5,000 each from his personal funds to 200 fire-affected families currently taking temporary shelter at the Barangay 39 gymnasium, helping families meet urgent needs as they begin rebuilding their lives.

The cash assistance was given directly to family heads to ensure immediate access to support.

Beyond the relief payout, Benitez also held a dialogue with residents alongside Dante Danoy, listening to concerns and outlining possible long-term solutions.

Among the options being explored is a proposal to engage the Lizares family, owners of the property where the fire occurred, to assess the feasibility of allowing affected families to acquire the land at an affordable price — opening a pathway to permanent housing.

The solon also announced that additional financial assistance will be released through his district office in the coming days, complementing the personal aid already provided.

He assured residents that his office will continue coordinating with stakeholders to support recovery efforts and help families transition from temporary shelter to stable homes./CJ, WDJ