SENATOR Christopher “Bong” Go commended the invaluable role of barangay leaders in promoting effective local governance and disaster response during the Liga ng mga Barangay Congress Antique Chapter held at the L’Fisher Hotel in Bacolod City on Wednesday, November 6.
With the theme “Strengthening Barangay Leaders for Continuous Sustainability, Growth, and Development,” Go praised the barangay officials of Antique present for their continued dedication and tireless efforts in serving their communities.
In his message, Go emphasized the crucial role of barangay leaders in bridging the gap between national policies and grassroots implementation.
“Ang mga barangay officials po ang tunay na haligi ng ating pamahalaan sa lokal na antas. Kayo po ang unang sumasagot sa tawag ng serbisyo sa oras ng sakuna at kalamidad. Napakahalaga po ng inyong papel sa ating layunin na magkaroon ng isang ligtas at maunlad na Bagong Pilipinas,” Go’s representative stated.
The senator further highlighted the importance of disaster preparedness and governance, noting that in times of crisis, barangay officials are the first responders, ensuring the safety and welfare of their constituents.
“Bilang mga lider ng barangay, mahalaga po ang inyong kakayahang maghanda at tumugon sa panahon ng sakuna. Kayo ang unang linya ng depensa ng ating mga komunidad laban sa kalamidad.”
Go also reiterated his support for legislative measures that empower barangay officials, particularly in providing them with the benefits and resources necessary to enhance their capacity for effective governance.
He mentioned his continued push for Senate Bill No. 197, which aims to institutionalize a Magna Carta for Barangays. The proposed legislation would officially recognize barangay officials as regular government employees, providing them with better compensation, hazard pay, and benefits.
Meanwhile, Go extended his heartfelt acknowledgments to key figures during the event, including Antique Governor Rhodora Cadiao, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla, represented by DILG Region VI Assistant Regional Director Maria Calpiza Sadua, alongside Congressman Antonio Agapito Bautista Legarda Jr., representing the Lone District of Antique, and Vice Governor Edgar “Ed” Denosta of Antique province.
Go also commended LNB National and Regional officials, notably National President Maria Katrina Jessica Dy, Bacolod City Chapter President Lady Gles Pallen, and Negros Occidental Chapter President Julius Sablan, for their leadership in strengthening the organization’s role at the grassroots level.
Further acknowledgments were given to the LNB Antique Chapter officials, including Chapter President Julius Tajanlangit, Vice President Julius Pacificador, Auditor Ariel Dy Buco, and Secretary Gerry Fernandez, who play pivotal roles in the province’s governance. The board members representing various municipalities were also acknowledged for their dedication to public service.
In addition, Go expressed gratitude towards DILG Antique Provincial Director John Ace Azarcon and DILG Region VI Regional Director Juan Ingeniero, recognizing their unwavering commitment to supporting local governance and development in the region.
He further encouraged barangay leaders to continue working together to uplift their communities, stating,
“Magkaisa po tayo sa iisang layunin—ang pagbutihin ang pamumuhay ng ating mga kababayan. Kayo po ang susi sa pagpapatupad ng mga programang tutugon sa pangangailangan ng bawat mamamayan.”
During the congress, Go’s Malasakit Team distributed assistance and tokens of appreciation to 358 barangay officials, recognizing their critical role in local governance. Select officials also received shoes and cell phones.
The senator also underscored his support for projects aimed at strengthening barangay infrastructure and disaster resilience.
Go is the principal author and one of the co-sponsors of Senate Bill No. 2451 or the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act, which seeks to establish Mandatory Evacuation Centers in localities across the Philippines if enacted into law. This bill was recently approved on the third and final reading in the Senate.
Go’s representative concluded the message by assuring barangay leaders of the senator’s unwavering commitment to supporting their endeavors.
“Hindi po kayo nag-iisa sa inyong serbisyo. Nandito po si Senator Bong Go, handang tumulong at maglingkod. Ang kanyang bisyo ay serbisyo para sa kapwa Pilipino.”
“Patuloy ang ating laban para sa mas ligtas at mas matatag na mga komunidad. Sama-sama nating harapin ang mga hamon ng kalikasan at siguruhin ang kapakanan ng ating mga kababayan. Ang inyong dedikasyon at serbisyo ang magsisilbing gabay sa ating pag-abot sa adhikaing ito,” he further encouraged.
With his track record of supporting local leaders and his commitment to pushing for policies that improve local governance and disaster preparedness, Go continues to be a staunch ally of barangay officials nationwide.
