SENATOR Christopher “Bong” Go personally checked on the situation of Barangay Masara landslide victims in Maco, Davao de Oro, and extended support for their rebuilding efforts during his visit on Saturday, December 7.
The landslide that struck Barangay Masara in Maco on February 6 is believed to have been caused by continuous rains from the shear line since January, compounded by the recent effects of a low-pressure area.
During the gathering at the barangay covered court, Go encouraged Filipinos to uphold the spirit of bayanihan as a means to overcome the challenges and hardships of life.
Together with his Malasakit Team, Go provided relief items such as grocery packs, meals, vitamins, shirts, basketballs, and volleyballs to 521 beneficiaries from Brgys. Masara and Mainit were affected by the landslide. Select recipients also received bicycles, shoes, and mobile phones.
In partnership with local officials, including Davao de Oro Governor Dorothy Gonzaga, Mayor Arthur Carlos Rimando, and Vice Mayor Alvera Veronica Rimando, the National Housing Authority (NHA) extended financial assistance under its Emergency Housing Assistance Program (EHAP). This aid is intended to help beneficiaries purchase essential housing materials to rebuild their homes. Go also acknowledged the support of councilors, barangay captains, and NHA officials.
“Ito pong EHAP ay ating isinulong at patuloy na sinusuportahan para may pambili ang mga biktima ng sakuna ng materyales tulad ng mga pako at yero na pampaayos ng tahanan,” Go stressed.
Together with local leaders, Go emphasized the need for vigilance and intensified disaster prevention efforts in local communities. He recognized the local government of Maco for its efforts in helping restore normalcy for the victims.
Meanwhile, Go highlighted the recent signing of Republic Act No. 12076, also known as the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act. This law mandates the establishment of safe, permanent, and well-equipped evacuation centers in all cities and municipalities nationwide. He personally witnessed the ceremonial signing of the law on December 6.
As the principal author and co-sponsor of the law, Go reiterated the urgent need for dedicated facilities to provide refuge for disaster-affected communities. These facilities aim to protect their dignity, ensure their safety, and expedite recovery efforts.
“Matagal na po nating isinusulong ang pagkakaroon ng permanenteng evacuation centers. Napapanahon na po ito upang masigurong maayos at ligtas ang masisilungan ng mga kababayan natin tuwing may sakuna,” Go emphasized. “Ang batas na ito ay para sa lahat, upang maiwasan ang hirap at peligro na dulot ng pananatili sa mga hindi angkop na pansamantalang tirahan.”
He also renewed his advocacy for the passage of Senate Bill No. 188, which seeks to establish the Department of Disaster Resilience (DDR). The proposed department aims to streamline efforts in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery, ensuring a more coordinated approach to crises.
“Hindi lang po tayo dapat tutok sa relief, kundi dapat handa na tayo bago pa man dumating ang kalamidad. We must continue to improve mechanisms — from coordination among agencies and LGUs, the preposition of goods for relief, evacuation, rescue efforts, and up to rebuilding, recovery, and restoration of normalcy — to further protect lives,” Go explained.
He stressed that the DDR could implement proactive measures and efficient resource management to reduce the impact of disasters on vulnerable communities.
Prior to the relief activity, Go also inspected the Super Health Center in the town. These centers aim to significantly reduce hospital occupancy rates while providing basic medical services at the grassroots level. They offer primary care, medical consultations, and early disease detection, strengthening healthcare at the community level.
Through the concerted efforts of Go, fellow lawmakers, the Department of Health (DOH), led by Secretary Teodoro “Ted” Herbosa, and local government units, adequate funding has been allocated for the establishment of more than 700 Super Health Centers nationwide, including nine in Davao de Oro.
Go, a health reforms crusader, also encouraged the victims to remain strong and assured them of continued support. He reminded those with medical needs to seek assistance at the Malasakit Centers in Davao de Oro Provincial Hospital in Compostela Valley.
Go, the principal author and sponsor of RA 11463, or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, institutionalized the Malasakit Centers program. To date, 166 Malasakit Centers are operational nationwide, assisting patients with their medical expenses. The DOH reports that the Malasakit Center program has aided over 15 million Filipinos.
“Minsan lang po tayo dadaan sa mundong ito. Kung ano pong kabutihan o tulong na pwede nating gawin sa ating kapwa ay gawin na natin ngayon dahil hindi na tayo babalik sa mundong ito. Ako po na inyong Kuya Bong Go ay patuloy na maglilingkod sa inyo,” Go concluded.
On the same day, Go inspected a multipurpose building in Brgy. Binuangan, a project he supported as vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance.
