SENATOR Christopher “Bong” Go has extended assistance to 14-year-old Bryan Ezek Pamonag, who has been hailed as a “living hero” for his bravery during the deadly shooting at Banga National High School in South Cotabato on September 18.

Go personally spoke with Bryan and his parents through a video call to check on the young survivor and assure the family of continued support as they recover from the traumatic incident.

Through his Malasakit Team, Go provided financial assistance to Bryan’s family, along with grocery packs, clothing, a watch, and basketballs and volleyballs.

Go also expressed his condolences to the families of those who died and wished for the full recovery of the wounded students and others affected by the shooting.

The senator said the incident underscores the need for stronger preventive measures, including increased police visibility and safer communities.

“Ang proteksyon sa ating mga kabataan ay hindi lamang dapat nakikita pagkatapos ng isang trahedya. Kailangan ng mas matibay na prevention, mas aktibong police visibility, at mas ligtas na mga komunidad,” Go said.

The Banga shooting was the third deadly school shooting reported in the country in recent months, following the shooting at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City on June 22 and the incident at Ateneo de Zamboanga University Junior High School in Zamboanga City on August 18.

Go said the repeated incidents underscore the need to strengthen school safety and violence prevention measures.

He filed Senate Bill No. 2413, or the proposed Safe Schools and Violence Prevention Bill, which seeks to establish national standards for a comprehensive school safety framework.

The bill proposes measures such as risk assessments, emergency preparedness, coordination with law enforcement and other government agencies, and mechanisms to address violence and other threats within school communities.

Go also stressed that school violence should not be treated solely as a peace-and-order issue, saying mental health concerns must also be addressed.

He cited the shortage of guidance and mental health professionals serving Filipino learners, noting previous Senate discussions on the need for more counselors in schools.

Go also cited Senate Bill No. 176, which seeks to establish Mental Health Offices in public higher education institutions nationwide.

“Sa ating mga kabataan nakasalalay ang kinabukasan ng bansa. Gawin natin ang lahat ng makakaya natin upang maprotektahan sila. Hindi dapat matakot ang isang bata na pumasok sa paaralan,” Go said.