SENATOR Christopher “Bong” Go reiterated his commitment to supporting more livelihood programs as he extended assistance to disadvantaged residents, particularly tricycle drivers, and women in the Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija. The senator underscored the need for targeted interventions that empower these sectors, which play a vital role in the community’s daily life and economic activities.
During a gathering on Thursday, August 29, Go’s Malasakit Team, in collaboration with local officials, including Mayor Baby Armi Alvarez, Vice Mayor Nestor Alvarez, and city councilors, distributed snacks, masks, vitamins, shirts, basketballs, and volleyballs to 450 beneficiaries composed of tricycle drivers and women at the Science City of Muñoz Municipal Gymnasium.
All of them are also qualified for the Department of Labor and Employment’s (DOLE) Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program. The initiative aligns with Go’s advocacy for inclusive growth and livelihood support, particularly for those who often face economic challenges and job insecurities.
In his video message, Go, an adopted son of Nueva Ecija, emphasized the importance of providing support to these key sectors, stating,
“Ang mga tricycle driver ay backbone ng ating local transportation system, habang ang mga kababaihan naman ay di lang isang ilaw ng tahanan kundi mga bayani ng bawat pamilyang Pilipino. Sa pag-invest sa kanilang kabuhayan, nag-i-invest tayo sa kinabukasan ng ating bayan.”
The senator lauded DOLE for its ongoing efforts, including the implementation of the TUPAD program, which has been instrumental in providing immediate employment opportunities to those most affected by economic downturns.
Meanwhile, Go underscored the need to safeguard the welfare of vulnerable workers, especially those in rural areas seeking better economic opportunities.
Senate Bill No. 420, introduced by Go, proposes the creation of a program to offer temporary employment opportunities to qualified members of economically disadvantaged families in rural areas. According to this bill, the Rural Employment Assistance Program (REAP) would be established if enacted into law to facilitate short-term employment for individuals identified as economically underprivileged, poor, displaced, or seasonal laborers.
In closing, Go reaffirmed his commitment to continue advocating for programs that uplift the lives of marginalized groups, stating,
“Ang mga tricycle drivers at kababaihan ay hindi dapat napag-iiwanan. They deserve opportunities to improve their lives and to be recognized for their contributions to society. Sa tulong ng ating pamahalaan at ng bawat isa, magtulungan tayo para sa mas magandang kinabukasan.”
“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,” Mr. Malasakit concluded.
