Senator Christopher “Bong” Go on Thursday, October 3, dispatched his Malasakit Team to conduct an outreach program benefiting the laborers in Igbaras and San Joaquin, Iloilo.
In a video message, Go emphasized the critical role of comprehensive and robust government initiatives in addressing the needs of the most vulnerable sectors of society. He called for stronger collaborative efforts among government agencies to ensure the successful implementation of pro-poor programs.
“Ako po’y isang simpleng probinsyano na nagnanais magserbisyo sa kapwa Pilipino. Huwag po kayong magpasalamat sa akin. Ako po ang dapat magpasalamat sa inyo sa pagkakataong magserbisyo sa inyo,” Go stated, emphasizing his role as a public servant who prioritizes the welfare of the underprivileged.
“Hindi ko sasayangin ang pagkakataong ibinigay n’yo sa akin at magseserbisyo ako sa abot ng akin makakaya. ‘Yan po ang pwede kong ialay sa mga Pilipino, ang aking kasipagan dahil ang bisyo ko ay magserbisyo sa inyong lahat,” he added.
In coordination with Iloilo Vice Governor Tingting Garin, the beneficiaries were given temporary employment opportunities under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program.
Go lauded the efforts of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in coordination with the local government in responding to the needs of poor and vulnerable sectors.
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 those in Iloilo located at Western Visayas Medical Center and West Visayas State University Medical Center, both in Iloilo City; Don Jose D. Monfort Medical Center Extension Hospital in Barotac Nuevo; and Western Visayas Sanitarium and General Hospital in Sta. Barbara.
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 more than 15 million Filipinos have benefitted from these centers.
The senator further extended his gratitude to the local government of Igabaras and San Joaquin for their hard work and dedication in looking after their constituents. He acknowledged the significant role that local leaders play in ensuring that assistance reaches those who need it most, especially during these challenging times.
“Gusto kong pasalamatan ang ating masisipag na mga opisyales. Sabi ko sa kanila magtulungan tayo para sa San Joaquin. Tulungan natin ang mga kababayan nating mahihirap, ‘yung walang matakbuhan kundi tayo pong nasa gobyerno,” Go advised.
During the events held at Igbaras Mayor’s Office and at San Joaquin People’s Center, Go’s team provided the 67 beneficiaries with snacks, shirts, basketballs, and volleyballs. There were also select recipients of pairs of shoes.
“Kahit saang sulok kayo ng Pilipinas, tutulong ako sa abot ng aking makakaya. Iyan po ang aking ipinangako sa Pilipino. Hindi ko po matiis na nakaupo lang po sa opisina habang ‘yung mga kababayan natin dito ay nangangailangan po ng tulong,” Mr. Malasakit ended.
