Fire victims expect help from politicos

CEBU, Philippines - Contrary to what was reported yesterday, the number of fire victims in barangays Tisa and Labangon left homeless by a fire is around 500 individuals not 500 families.

In a follow-up, it was learned that most of the victims are appealing help from politicians in terms of providing for their basic needs and in rebuilding their homes.

Since the campaign period for national elective posts has already started, the estimated 100 affected families expect to be visited by politicians. They deem it appropriate for those seeking elective positions to check their actual situation to see what assistance could best be extended to at least 500 people displaced by the blaze.

As of yesterday afternoon, the victims already started clearing the affected sites, removing charred debris.

Ryan Camero, one of the fire victims, told reporters that he is looking forward for politicians to take a look at their condition.

The homeless families take temporary shelter at a vacant lot nearby, with tents provided by the city government. They said that they want to rebuild their houses on the same site, as they have no other option where to stay.

However, it was further learned that the victims had only been renting space in there.

 “Amo lang gyod nga panghinaot nga ang mga politiko dili makalimot sa ilang saad nga motabang,” Camero said.

A 62-year-old woman who only identified herself as Merlyn wishes that politicians not only help those in places where they can get votes. That above the lure of power and wealth brought about by elective posts, politicians must stand true to their vow to be of service.

When the afternoon fire broke out last Tuesday in sitio Tambisan, in the said two villages of Cebu City, Mayor Tomas Osmeña and Vice Mayor Michael Rama rushed to the area and comforted the fire victims.

Tisa and Labangon are in the south district.

Even the widow, an occupant of the house where the fire allegedly started, implored help from government officials seeking reelection.

Annie Sembrano said that local leaders should not spare her and her three children of generosity at this time of crisis. Rumors had it that somebody threw a cigarette, still smoldering at the tip, onto a pile of firewood at the back of her rented house. – Gabriel C. Bonjoc/MEEV (THE FREEMAN)