ON Tuesday, September 24, Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go dispatched his Malasakit Team to extend additional support to struggling residents in Bago City, Negros Occidental.
Highlighting the significance of improving the quality of life for the poor, Go reiterated his dedication to boosting the health and welfare of Filipinos starting from the community level, to help ensure a secure and healthier future for all.
“Prayoridad ko ang pagsuporta sa pro-poor programs at dapat po ay sikapin ng gobyerno na walang magutom na Pilipino. ‘Yan po ang pakiusap ko parati sa kapwa ko lingkod bayan,” said Go, who is also dubbed Mr. Malasakit for his compassionate service to the poor.
During the event held at Manuel Y. Torres Memorial Coliseum and Cultural Center, Go’s Malasakit Team provided snacks, shirts, basketballs, and volleyballs to 1000 beneficiaries. Shoes for men and women were also given to select recipients.
Meanwhile, Go partnered with Bago City Mayor Nikko Yulo to provide financial support to qualified beneficiaries. He also acknowledged local leaders he collaborated with to bring services closer to the people, including 4th District of Negros Occidental Congresswoman Juliet Ferrer, Governor Eugenio “Bong” Lacson, Vice Governor Jeffrey Ferrer, Vice Mayor Monet Torresto, and various councilors.
As the Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, Go also extended assistance to those needing medical-related support. He encouraged the public to visit any Malasakit Centers nationwide, including the one at Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital in Bacolod City.
“Nasa loob na po ng isang kwarto sa ilang mga pampublikong ospital ang apat na ahensya ng gobyerno na may medical assistance programs para hindi na kailangang pumila at bumyahe pa sa iba’t ibang opisina para humingi ng tulong pampagamot,” cited Go.
Go initiated the Malasakit Centers program in 2018 after witnessing the struggles of financially disadvantaged Filipinos in settling their medical expenses. The program, institutionalized in 2019 under Republic Act No. 11463, was principally authored and sponsored by Go.
Since its inception, the program has established 166 Malasakit Centers across the country, with the Department of Health reporting that approximately 12 million Filipinos have benefitted from these centers.
“Bisyo ko po ang magserbisyo at ako ay naniniwala na ang serbisyo sa tao ay serbisyo ‘yan sa Panginoon, serbisyo ‘yan kay Allah,” underscored Go who is known as Mr. Malasakit for his compassion towards Filipinos in need.
