The 70 barangays of this city are now better equipped to respond to community needs, particularly in disaster risk mitigation and resilience, following the turnover of 45 new rescue vehicles to the barangays.

In an interview on Monday after a flag ceremony, outgoing Legazpi City Mayor Alfredo Garbin said the new vehicles will serve as essential assets for the barangays, enhancing their ability to respond quickly and ensuring the safety and security of every individual.

“Every barangay needs mobility to respond to emergencies and conduct rescues. How can they carry out their responsibilities without proper vehicles? We are grateful to have turned over 45 new rescue vehicles with the support of the Ako Bicol (AKB) Partylist. Now, all 70 barangays are equipped with these important tools,” he said.

Garbin urged all barangay officials to use the rescue vehicles solely for public purposes as part of their duties.

“They should not be used for personal convenience or to waste state resources. Misusing a vehicle for purposes not aligned with their responsibilities constitutes an abuse of state resources. This includes gasoline, maintenance, and the cost of employing a driver, all of which are paid for by the barangay,” he said.

Garbin also reminded every barangay of their responsibility to maintain the vehicles properly.

“Let me stress that it is the responsibility of each barangay to ensure the vehicles remain functional. They are the end-users, and they need to take care of them,” he said.

Garbin clarified that all procurement processes for the rescue vehicles complied with the election code.

As an incoming AKB Party-list lawmaker, Garbin said the group is also providing vehicles to other towns and cities.

In a statement, AKB Rep. Elizaldy Co said the vehicles are part of the ongoing response to communities’ needs regarding safety and emergency services.

“They are not just vehicles; they symbolize quick action, concern, and readiness for each barangay,” he said.

In addition to the rescue vehicles, Co cited other services provided by the AKB, including repairs to the power supply in Albay, solar power projects, and zero-billing programs in hospitals such as the Bicol Regional Hospital and Medical Center (BRHMC) and the Legazpi City Hospital. (PNA)