SENATOR Christopher “Bong” Go’s Malasakit Team visited Misamis Oriental on November 7 and 8 to extend support to displaced workers from the towns of Manticao, Lugait, Naawan, and Initao, emphasizing the significance of ensuring economic stability and opportunities for affected communities.
“Kami po ang nagpapasalamat sa inyo dahil binigyan n’yo kami ng pagkakataon na magserbisyo,” Go expressed in his message to the community, adding, “Magtatrabaho po ako para sa Pilipino sa abot ng aking makakaya.”
To address economic hardships, Go has filed Senate Bill No. 420 to create the Rural Employment Assistance Program (REAP) under the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), a measure aimed at providing short-term employment for underprivileged households in rural areas.
To further ease the financial burden on Filipino families, Go also co-authored and co-sponsored Senate Bill No. 2534, which aims to raise the daily minimum wage by P100 nationwide.
The relief distribution event was held at Barangay Poblacion Hall in Manticao and Initao Municipal Hall, in coordination with Manticao Mayor Stephen Tan, Lugait Mayor Wellie Lim, Naawan Mayor Dennis Roa, and Initao Mayor Mercy Grace Acain.
Go’s team provided shirts, snacks, basketballs, volleyballs, vitamins, and masks to 415 displaced workers. Additionally, selected individuals received mobile phones, sling bags, and shoes.
Recognizing the challenges faced by displaced workers, Go extended his appreciation to DOLE for its proactive measures, particularly the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program, which provides temporary employment for qualified individuals. Go encouraged the beneficiaries to use the livelihood assistance they have received to help sustain their everyday needs.
“Huwag kayong panghinaan ng loob. Ang natutunan ninyo ay magagamit ninyo para makahanap ng mas maayos at matatag na hanapbuhay,” Go said.
“Kami po ay patuloy na maghahanap ng mga paraan upang tulungan kayong makabangon at magtagumpay sa buhay.”
“Bisyo ko ang magserbisyo sa inyo,” Go emphasized, “ang serbisyo sa tao ay serbisyo para sa Panginoon, kaya patuloy po tayong magtutulungan.”
Through continuous efforts, Senator Go aims to uplift the lives of Misamis Oriental residents, providing support and advocating for long-term solutions to enhance local livelihoods.
