THE Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) provided medical and other forms of assistance to injured parishioners, following an unfortunate incident at St. Peter Apostle Parish Church in Barangay Tungkong Mangga, San Jose del Monte, Bulacan last February 14.

To recall, a wooden portion of the mezzanine floor of the church collapsed while a Holy Mass was being held in the morning of Ash Wednesday, resulting in the death of one parishioner and injuries to 50 others.

PCSO General Manager Mel Robles said the agency would shoulder the medical bills of six victims, who were seriously injured and remained confined in various hospitals through the Medical Access Program in collaboration with the local government of the city.

"In the face of this tragic accident that occurred in a place of prayer and refuge, it is our duty to make the victims feel the supportive presence of our government," Robles said.

"Under President Bongbong Marcos' Bagong Pilipinas, it is imperative that we extend help to those in need, particularly those who are burdened by concerns about hospital expenses," Robles continued.

Accompanied by San Jose del Monte Bulacan Mayor Arthur Robes and PCSO Executive Assistant Arnold Arriola, Robles personally visited the patients, who were confined at various hospitals, to check on their condition and assess possible assistance that the PCSO could give.

Subsequently, the PCSO general manager also checked the damaged church and discussed with the local officials on how to hasten its repair and rehabilitation.

Robles also visited the wake of the sole casualty of the tragedy and consoled the grieving family.

With his swift and concrete actions, the general manager has, once again, manifested that PCSO remained steadfast in its commitment to providing assistance and support to those who were in need.

"PCSO, Hindi Umuurong sa Pagtulong," Robles concluded.