THE House of Representatives has extended assistance to Filipino workers affected by the November 26 fire at the Tai Po residential complex in Hong Kong.
Rep. Bryan Revilla, Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs chairman and nominee of the Agimat party-list group, visited the affected Filipino workers over the weekend to personally convey the House’s sympathies and support.
‘Even if you are far from home, we are here to help you,’ Revilla told the workers, emphasizing that fires often leave a deeper emotional toll than other disasters. Around 60 Filipino workers were displaced by the blaze.
Among those he met was Rhodora Tañacao, who was recovering in the hospital for smoke inhalation. Tañacao had arrived in Hong Kong only on the day of the incident and bravely remained inside the burning complex to protect her infant ward until help arrived. Revilla praised her courage, calling it a testament to the Filipino spirit of compassion and service.
Revilla’s visit was made upon the directive of Speaker Faustino Dy III, who instructed him to check on the condition of Filipino workers and provide assistance. Dy also authorized the release of financial aid to each affected worker, with the funds to be deposited directly into their accounts.
The Office of the Speaker will likewise extend financial assistance to the family of Mary Ann Esteban, the overseas Filipino worker (OFW) who died in the incident. Revilla said her remains will be repatriated to the Philippines within the week at no cost to her family.
In addition to financial support, Revilla’s team brought volunteer mental health professionals to help the OFWs process trauma from the incident. He stressed the importance of caring not only for physical well-being but also for emotional and mental health.
Revilla expressed gratitude to OFWs in Hong Kong for inspiring him to pursue more legislative measures that will benefit overseas workers. He assured them that the House remains receptive to their concerns, including those affecting their families in the Philippines.
‘If you need anything or have any concerns, please let us know. We are here to help you,’ he said.