SENATOR Christopher “Bong” Go stressed his commitment to fostering development in rural areas as he played a crucial role in pursuing the necessary funding for the Betwagan Bridge in Sadanga, Mountain Province, as vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance.
On Wednesday, March 6, Mayor Engr. Adolf Ganggangan paid a courtesy call to the office of Go to extend his gratitude for the senator’s instrumental role in realizing the Betwagan Bridge and other initiatives for his constituents.
With the support of the local government led by Mayor Ganggangan, Go expressed his enthusiasm for the project’s blessing and inauguration, which took place on February 16, where the senator’s office was represented by his staff.
“I am deeply honored to have contributed to the realization of the Betwagan Bridge. This infrastructure is not just a testament to our commitment to progress but also a vital link that will foster economic growth, ease the transport of goods and improve the daily lives of our citizens in Sadanga and neighboring areas,” said Go.
The construction of the bridge, measuring five meters in width and sixty meters in length, is anticipated to enhance transportation, facilitate easier access to essential goods and services, and simplify the movement of agricultural goods. This development promises to unlock new possibilities for the people living in Barangay Betwagan and the surrounding regions.
The project, which began in 2012, faced numerous challenges but was ultimately realized through the collective efforts of the Duterte administration, Senator Go’s office, the provincial government, the Department of Public Works and Highways, the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity, Congressman Maximo Dalog Jr., and other officials.
The bridge is seen as a symbol of resilience and prosperity and a gateway to socioeconomic advancement for the people of Sadanga.
Go then reiterated his dedication to supporting similar projects across the Philippines, emphasizing the importance of infrastructure development in achieving national growth and development.
“Our goal is to ensure that no community is left behind in our journey towards recovery and progress. We will continue to work tirelessly to support projects that uplift the lives of the Filipino people, especially in the countryside,” Go stated.
Aside from the bridge, Go continues to push for initiatives that will improve the lives of the residents in the town. He also helped fund three multipurpose buildings in Sadanga as well as numerous forms of aid to vulnerable sectors.
As chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, the senator encouraged those with health concerns to visit any Malasakit Centers in the province at Luis Hora Memorial Regional Hospital and Bontoc General Hospital.
There are currently 159 Malasakit Centers nationwide, which have assisted seven million indigent Filipinos.
Republic Act No. 11463 was principally authored and sponsored by Go to ensure Filipinos have convenient access to medical assistance programs by concerned agencies, including the Department of Social Welfare and Development, the Department of Health, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office.
Nearby Malasakit Centers can also be found at the Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center, Benguet General Hospital in La Trinidad, Far North Luzon General Hospital & Training Center, and Conner District Hospital in Apayao.
To bring primary healthcare services closer to communities, Go also pushed for the construction of five Super Health Centers to help improve healthcare accessibility in Mountain Province including one in Sadanga.
The senator likewise supported the funding for the construction of the Besao District Hospital. On February 29, Go’s office attended the groundbreaking for the hospital and Super Health Center in Besao.
