SENATOR Christopher “Bong” Go supported the distribution of essential medicines to 29 barangays in Malinao, Albay on Friday, January 31, as part of his continuing advocacy to enhance healthcare access, especially in grassroots communities.
The initiative, conducted in collaboration with Councilor Carol Ziga, aims to ensure that residents have immediate access to basic medications in times of emergencies. The distributed medicines are intended to be readily available in barangay health centers, strengthening the capacity of local communities to respond to urgent health needs.
In his message, Senator Go emphasized the importance of proactive healthcare support, stating, “Access to essential medicines can potentially save lives during emergencies. By providing these supplies directly to barangays, we are empowering communities to respond swiftly and effectively when health crises occur.”
Senator Go’s Malasakit Team also distributed snacks, shirts, basketballs, and volleyballs to some residents present during the distribution.
Senator Go also highlighted the role of Malasakit Centers, a flagship initiative he spearheaded through Republic Act No. 11463 or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, in providing streamlined access to medical assistance across the country. “The Malasakit Center is a one-stop shop located in public hospitals where four government agencies collaborate to help Filipinos with their medical expenses,” explained Go, principal author and sponsor of RA 11463.
Currently, there are 166 Malasakit Centers nationwide, which have assisted more than 15 million indigent Filipinos, according to the Department of Health (DOH). These centers continue to ease the healthcare burden for many low-income families.
Beyond immediate medical aid, Go, as the chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health, is also advocating for the establishment of more Super Health Centers nationwide. These centers are designed to improve the availability of primary healthcare services, contributing to the overall well-being of Filipinos, especially in rural areas.
With the collective efforts of the DOH, led by Secretary Teodoro Herbosa, local government units, and fellow legislators, substantial funding has been secured for the construction of more than 600 Super Health Centers. The DOH identifies strategic locations where these centers will have the most impact.
One Super Health Center was funded in Malinao and eight in the whole province. In Malinao, Albay, Senator Go reaffirmed his commitment to supporting health programs and infrastructure that uplift the lives of Filipinos.
“Healthcare should not be a privilege but a right accessible to every Filipino, regardless of where they live. Together, with our dedicated local leaders, we will continue working towards a healthier and more resilient Philippines,” he said.
“Patuloy kaming magseserbisyo sa inyo dahil bisyo ko ang magserbisyo, at ako ay naniniwala na ang serbisyo sa tao ay serbisyo ‘yan sa Panginoon, serbisyo ‘yan kay Allah,” concluded Go.
