The Angeles City Government is mobilizing recovery assistance for vendors affected by the fire that hit Pampang Public Market and reached the fourth alarm.

Mayor Carmelo “Jon” Lazatin II immediately went to the market to monitor firefighting, assessment and clearing operations, and ordered a comprehensive assessment of affected vendors and the damage to their stalls and goods.

City offices, in coordination with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), will conduct structural, electrical and fire-safety assessments. The reopening of affected sections will depend on the recommendation of the BFP-Angeles.

The City Social Welfare and Development Office was also directed to coordinate with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and other national government agencies for possible emergency assistance, livelihood support and business recovery programs.

The LGU is likewise exploring temporary vending areas in safe and suitable locations to help affected vendors resume operations while rehabilitation of the market is underway.

The City Health Office will oversee the health and safety of vendors and responders, including sanitation and disinfection of the affected area. City offices were also instructed to ensure proper documentation and validation of affected vendors as the basis for assistance distribution.

The city government will continue to support the BFP investigation into the cause of the fire.

For Mayor Jon, recovery must go beyond rebuilding the damaged sections of the market and include helping affected vendors restore their livelihoods and start anew.