ON Monday, February 10, prior to the start of the official campaign period, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go met with local farmers in Marawi City, underscoring his commitment to agricultural development and rural livelihoods. The gathering, held at the Lanao del Sur Provincial Gymnasium, provided an opportunity for the senator to listen to the concerns of farmers and reinforce his advocacy for inclusive economic recovery.
“Alam ko pong hindi madaling buhay magsasaka, lalo na sa mga panahon ng mataas na presyo ng bilihin at iba pang hamon sa sektor ng agrikultura,” Senator Go said. “Pero nandito po kami para siguraduhin na kayo ay patuloy na nabibigyan ng suporta upang mas mapalakas pa ang inyong kabuhayan.”
Senator Go and his Malasakit Team actively engaged with a total of 1,000 farmers and the community, listening to their needs and ensuring that government programs reach those who needed these most.
Meanwhile, through the collaborative efforts of Senator Go and the local officials of Marawi City, qualified beneficiaries received support from the local government.
During his visit, Senator Go emphasized several initiatives aimed at supporting farmers and strengthening rural economies. He reaffirmed his push for more sustainable livelihood programs and infrastructure projects that benefit agrarian communities.
“Lagi kong isinusulong ang mga programang makakatulong sa kabuhayan ninyo, lalo na ang pagpapatayo ng imprastraktura na magpapadali ng pagdadala ng produkto mula sa mga sakahan patungo sa mga pamilihan,” he said.
His legislative efforts have focused on reinforcing agricultural support systems to ensure that the backbone of the country’s food supply remains strong and resilient.
Among his significant legislative contributions is co-authoring Republic Act No. 11901, also known as the Agriculture, Fisheries, and Rural Development Financing Enhancement Act of 2022. This law enhances financial mechanisms and support systems for the agricultural sector, allowing farmers and fisherfolk better access to necessary resources.
Furthermore, Senator Go has co-sponsored and co-authored RA 11953, the New Agrarian Emancipation Act, which alleviates the financial burdens of agrarian reform beneficiaries. This measure condones loans, including interest, penalties, and surcharges, giving farmers a fresh start toward economic stability.
As part of his continued advocacy for agricultural development, Senator Go introduced Senate Bill No. 2117, which seeks to provide comprehensive crop insurance protection for agrarian reform beneficiaries. Additionally, he has filed SBN 2118, which aims to expand insurance coverage and services for farmers if enacted into law.
Beyond agriculture, Senator Go has supported various infrastructure projects in Lanao del Sur, including the construction of multi-purpose buildings in Marawi City.
As part of his healthcare advocacy, Senator Go also announced the launch of a new Malasakit Center at the Lanao del Sur Provincial Hospital in Tamparan town. This marks the second Malasakit Center in the province, following the one established at Amai Pakpak Medical Center in Marawi City in 2020.
Go is the principal author and sponsor of RA 11463, or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which institutionalized the Malasakit Centers program. As of now, 167 Malasakit Centers are operational across the country, poised to assist with patients’ medical expenses. The DOH reports that the Malasakit Center program has already provided aid to more than 15 million Filipinos.
The Malasakit Center serves as a one-stop shop where Filipinos can access medical assistance from various government agencies, ensuring that healthcare remains within reach for those in need.
Senator Go expressed his gratitude to local leaders who helped facilitate the gathering. Among those present were Lanao del Sur Governor Datu Mamintal Adiong, Vice Governor Mohammad Khalid Adiong, Marawi City Mayor Majul Gandamra, and Vice Mayor Anouar Abdulrauf.
Before concluding the event, Senator Go reiterated his dedication to serving Filipinos if given a fresh mandate, particularly those in marginalized communities.
“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,” he stated.
