We are sorry, the requested page does not exist
Kuya Bong backs medical specialty agencies’ establishment
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has recently expressed his full support for the establishment of the National Disease Prevention Management Authority, Medical Reserve Corps, and the Virology Institute of the Philippines. The measures were discussed during the Third Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council meeting after the senator attended the groundbreaking for the Super Health Center in San Mateo, Rizal. When asked about the progress of these initiatives, Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health stressed his full support and is optimistic that these will be approved this year. Go clarified that the NDPMA is essentially the same as the previously named Center for Disease Control and Prevention bill as he reiterated the importance of being prepared for possible future pandemics, citing the country’s experience with Covid-19. He recalled how the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine became a crucial office for Covid-19 testing, despite almost losing its funding during the 2019 budget deliberations. “In 2019, before the pandemic came, the budget for the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine was almost cut. We did not agree. In fact, we increased them during the budget deliberations,” Go said. “My hunch was right, who would have thought that RITM would be one of the most important offices during the pandemic? RITM is also capable of testing other infectious diseases besides Covid-19,” he added. He concluded by saying that he supports these initiatives that will benefit Filipinos, the healthcare system, and the less fortunate. To recall, the senator has filed his own versions of these measures in the Senate — Senate Bill 195 or the creation of a Center for Disease Control and if passed, the CDC will serve as the country’s central hub for disease prevention, surveillance and control, focusing on both infectious and non-communicable diseases. The post Kuya Bong backs medical specialty agencies’ establishment appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Dapat maging mas handa tayo’ — Bong Go backs healthcare-related bills
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go expressed in an interview on Thursday, September 21, after attending the groundbreaking for the Super Health Center in San Mateo, Rizal, his full support for the establishment of the National Disease Prevention Management Authority, Medical Reserve Corps, and the Virology Institute of the Philippines. The measures were discussed during the third Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC) meeting. When asked about the progress of these initiatives, Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health, responded, "As chair po ng Senate Committee on Health, full support po ako dito." “Nasa subcommittee ang mga bills na ito na pinangungunahan ni Senator Pia Cayetano. Nakapag-hearing na ito at isa ako sa mga nagfile ng bills. Hopefully, maipasa ito ngayong taon,” said Go. "Priority rin ang mga ito ni Pangulong Bongbong Marcos, nabanggit din ito sa LEDAC, so suportado ko ito," he added. Go clarified that the NDPMA is essentially the same as the previously named Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) bill. “Unang-una, napaloob po ito sa Philippine Development Plan po ng ating Pangulong Marcos. Itong paggagawa ng Center for Disease Control and Prevention, or ibahin man po, maging National Disease Management Prevention Authority ay suportado ko po ito," added Go. The senator emphasized the importance of being prepared for possible future pandemics, citing the country's experience with COVID-19. "Mas mabuti pong lagi tayong handa; meron tayong opisina na nakatutok po kung saka-sakaling may dumating na pandemya po sa buhay natin," he said. He recalled how the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM) became a crucial office for COVID-19 testing, despite almost losing its funding during the 2019 budget deliberations. “Noong 2019 naman bago dumating ang pandemya ay muntik ding binawasan ang budget para sa Research Institute for Tropical Medicine. Hindi po tayo pumayag. In fact, dinagdagan pa natin sila noong budget deliberations. Tama nga ang kutob ko, sino ba ang mag-aakala na ang RITM ang magiging isa sa pinakaimportanteng opisina sa panahon ng pandemya? Ang RITM din ang may kakayahan na mag-test ng iba pang nakahahawang sakit bukod sa COVID-19,” Go shared. He concluded by saying that he supports these initiatives that will benefit Filipinos, the healthcare system, and the less fortunate. "Bagama't isang boto lang po ako, ay suportado ko po ang mga ito." The senator has filed his own versions of these measures in the Senate. Go has filed Senate Bill No. 195 or the creation of a Center for Disease Control (CDC). If passed into law, CDC will serve as the country's central hub for disease prevention, surveillance, and control, focusing on both infectious and non-communicable diseases. Another key legislative measure from Go is SBN 196, which seeks to establish a Virology Science and Technology Institute. The institute is envisioned as a center for virology that will enhance the country's capacity to study, detect, and combat emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases. He also filed SBN 1180 which seeks to establish a Medical Reserve Corps composed of individuals who have degrees in health-related fields but have yet to obtain professional licenses. The Medical Reserve Corps may be called upon to assist the national government and the local government units in their functions related to addressing the medical needs of the public in times of national emergencies. The post ‘Dapat maging mas handa tayo’ — Bong Go backs healthcare-related bills appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Better sports facilities pushed
As chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports, I am saddened by the dilapidated state of the country’s iconic sports facilities. The Philippine Institute of Sports Multi-Purpose Arena, popularly known as PhilSports Arena, has come a long way from the time it was built in 1985 to house the Philippine Basketball Association until the league moved out in 1993 due to the lack of maintenance of the venue. The last time it was renovated was in 2019, when the country hosted the 30th Southeast Asian Games. Among PhilSports Arena’s main facilities are the Multi-purpose Arena, Swimming Center, and Football and Athletic Stadium. While the arena was greatly enjoyed as a sports facility, it also served as a temporary shelter for evacuees after Tropical Storm Ondoy and Typhoon Pepeng struck the Philippines in 2009, adding to the facility's wear and tear. A quick look at the PhilSports Arena and the other sports facilities nationwide should make us realize that we should invest more in rehabilitating our iconic sports facilities. As I have suggested during the budget deliberations in the Senate, prioritizing funding for sports facilities would have been better than putting flood control projects in areas with little to no population. This concern about the support we are providing our athletes has motivated me to author and co-sponsor Republic Act No. 11470, which established the National Academy of Sports at New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac. In collaboration with the Philippine Sports Commission and the Department of Education, NAS now offers a specialized secondary education program focused on sports where students can study and train simultaneously. I have also filed the Philippine National Games bill, which aims to provide a structure for a more comprehensive national sports program, linking grassroots sports promotion to national sports development by having a mini Olympics regularly. Providing opportunities to our youth will help develop their potential in sports but will also help keep them away from vices such as illegal drugs. I continue to support establishing sports-related programs and infrastructure to divert the youth from the lure of addiction and criminality. This is also part of my three-pronged approach to combat illegal drugs in the Philippines – law enforcement, rehabilitation, and prevention. Yesterday, I witnessed the Philippine ROTC Games 2023 Luzon Qualifying Leg opening ceremony held at Cavite State University – Indang Campus in Indang, Cavite. With Sen. Francis Tolentino, I encouraged our young cadets who participated in various competitions to get into sports and stay away from drugs. I have also remained faithful to my promise to visit and help our fellow Filipinos in most parts of the country. On 16 September, we attended the groundbreaking of a Super Health Center in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon. We also visited the town of Damulog, where I inspected projects I have supported, such as a public market, road concreting project, evacuation center, solar street lights, and a multipurpose building. Later that day, we also attended the 25th Anniversary of Public Safety Basic Recruit Course Class 1998-Alpha at Acacia Hotel in Davao City. On 15 September, we attended a meeting of state universities and colleges leaders held in Davao City and hosted by Commission on Higher Education Chair Prospero de Vera. The night before, we also joined leaders from the CHEd, the University of the Philippines System, and various SUCs to honor the appointment of Atty. Angelo Jimenez, a fellow Mindanaoan, as the 22nd President of the University of the Philippines. We took the opportunity to voice our commitment to elevating the standard of education nationwide. This is also the reason why Republic Act No. 10931, or the Universal Access To Quality Tertiary Education Act, was enacted into law during the time of former president Rodrigo Duterte. Today, we continue to pursue this further as I co-authored and co-sponsored Senate Bill No. 1360, which aims to widen the reach of the law further. We visited Bislig City in Surigao del Sur to participate in its 23rd Charter Day festivities. We handed out grocery packages to 32 newlywed couples during a community wedding and inaugurated the country’s 159th Malasakit Center at the Bislig District Hospital. This is the seventh Malasakit Center in the Caraga region and the 40th in Mindanao. Our team also provided direct aid, including grocery packs, to 129 patients and 191 front liners, including security guards, utilities, and hospital staff. On 15 September, my office also attended the groundbreaking of Super Health Centers in New Washington and Malay in the province of Aklan. Meanwhile, we continue to support livelihood programs, especially those that can help people experiencing poverty overcome crises. Through our support, the Department of Trade and Industry provides livelihood kits to qualified beneficiaries affected by calamities and teaches them how to grow their businesses for the benefit of their families. Among those we have helped are 20 from Dipaculao, Aurora; 57 from Sanchez Mira and Abulog, Cagayan; 100 affected by the earthquake in Montevista and New Bataan, and 50 in Nabunturan in Davao de Oro; 196 in Malalag and Sulop, Davao del Sur; 20 in Mangatarem, Pangasinan; 21 victims of Typhoon Egay in Pigcawayan, North Cotabato; 132 shear line victims in Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental; and 36 beneficiaries from Lutayan and Columbio, Sultan Kudarat, and General Santos City. We also continue to support the National Housing Authority’s distribution of emergency housing assistance to disaster victims so they can purchase roofing, nails, and other home repair materials. We assisted beneficiaries, including 85 fire victims in Imus City, Cavite. Meanwhile, my office helped the 65 fire victims in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental. We also provided assistance to 75 TESDA graduates in Victorias City, Negros Occidental. We also distributed additional support to workers who lost their jobs, beneficiaries of the TUPAD program of the Department of Labor and Employment, including 413 in Talibon, Bohol, and 150 in Plaridel, Bulacan. We also aided 333 poor residents in Paluan, Occidental Mindoro; and 234 in Antipolo City, Rizal. Together, let us continue bringing government services closer to Filipinos in need – from better sports facilities more accessible healthcare services, and implementing various programs to help uplift communities affected by crises. The post Better sports facilities pushed appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go inspects Siniloan isolation facility
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, the chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, personally inspected the isolation facility at the Siniloan Infirmary Hospital in Siniloan, Laguna on Friday, 25 August. Go, also the vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, has supported the said project during the Duterte administration. The senator, an adopted son of CALABARZON, was also joined by Vice Governor Karen Agapay, Mayor Patrick Go, Vice Mayor Carla Valderrama, and Councilors Carl Anthony Puño, Regie De Jesus, and Councilor Ronald Valeroso, among others. "Maraming salamat po Kuya Bong. Ang bayan po ng Siniloan ay taos-pusong nagpapasalamat sa inyong pagdalaw at kami po ay binibigyan niyo ng suporta. Ang sarili naming Infirmary Hospital ay parang Malasakit Center na rin dahil ang mga kapos nating kababayan na lumalapit doon ay nabibigyan natin ng direktang libreng pag-gagamot. Kaya Kuya Bong, maraming maraming salamat po. Talagang 'Go cares'," Mayor Go expressed. Go’s visit not only underscored his dedication to serving the Filipino people but also highlighted the critical need to bolster the nation's health sector, particularly in the wake of the devastating effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. During the inspection, the senator engaged in conversations with the local officials and even healthcare workers to gain firsthand insights into the challenges faced by the health sector. “Sinusuportahan naman natin ang inyong Infirmary Hospital dito po sa Siniloan at gaya ng sinabi ko kung ano po ang makakatulong sa Siniloan sa pag-unlad ng inyong bayan at makatulong po sa mga mahihirap nating kababayan dito po sa Siniloan ay handa po akong tumulong sa abot ng aking makakaya ay tutulong po ako dito po sa inyong bayan,” said Go in an interview after his visit. Go has consistently stressed the importance of continuous investments in healthcare infrastructure, personnel, and equipment especially in the community level. He pointed out that the pandemic had exposed vulnerabilities in the health sector and underscored the need for proactive measures to ensure that the country is better equipped to handle future health crises. Through a series of innovative initiatives, including Malasakit Centers, Super Health Centers (SHCs), and Regional Specialty Centers (RSCs), Go underscored his unwavering commitment to ensuring that all Filipinos have access to quality medical assistance and services. Malasakit Centers, a brainchild of Senator Go, act as one-stop shops that consolidate the available medical assistance programs of various government agencies, ensuring that poor and indigent patients can readily access the support they need. Since its inception in 2018, Malasakit Centers have provided invaluable assistance to more than seven million patients, alleviating the financial burdens that often accompany medical treatments. There are currently 158 operational centers nationwide, including those at Laguna Medical Center in Sta. Cruz and San Pablo City General Hospital in San Pablo City. Go is the principal author and sponsor of the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019. Meanwhile, Go’s vision of a more improved healthcare sector extends to the establishment of SHCs, which aim to offer comprehensive healthcare services to communities, especially in underserved areas. Such centers are set to be established in cities such as Calamba, Cabuyao, Sta. Rosa, San Pedro, San Pablo, and Biñan, as well as in the towns of Alaminos, Mabitac, Calauan, Los Baños, and Sta. Maria. The SHCs will offer a wide range of services, including database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray and ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service, oncology centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation center, and telemedicine, through which remote diagnosis and treatment of patients are made possible. Through the concerted efforts of the Department of Health (DOH) and lawmakers, adequate funding has been allocated in the national budget for the establishment of 307 SHCs in 2022 and 322 more in 2023. “Ang maganda po diyan early detection, primary care, checkup, konsulta. Diyan ho kayo magpakonsulta sa Super Health Center na itinatayo sa inyong lugar. Early detection (para) hindi lumala ang sakit. It will help decongest sa hospitals, madi-decongest po ang mga hospitals dahil diyan na po gagamutin sa mga Super Health Center,’ Go said. Recognizing the need for specialized care, Go has also championed the establishment of Regional Specialty Centers. These centers focus on specific medical fields, ensuring that patients receive expert care without the need to travel long distances to urban centers. In the Senate, Go principally sponsored and is one of the authors of Senate Bill No. 2212, also known as the Regional Specialty Centers Act, which was recently approved and signed by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. into law. “Pangatlong prayoridad ko po bilang chairman ng Committee on Health ito pong establishing regional specialty center. Maglalagay po ng mga specialty center sa mga DOH regional hospital sa buong Pilipinas. It’s a multiyear plan po. Halimbawa, (kung may problema sa) heart, kidney, lung, neonatal, mental, ito pong mga ortho sa mga may karamdaman sa buto, cancer. Ilalagay na po sa lahat ng DOH regional hospital sa buong Pilipinas para ilapit po natin ang serbisyo medikal sa ating mga kababayan,” explained Go. “Ako po ang (isa sa mga) author at (principal) sponsor niyan sa Senado at pasado na ‘yan, napirmahan na po ni Pangulong Bongbong Marcos dahil priority po ito ni Pangulong Bongbong Marcos. Establishing specialty center in every DOH regional hospital all over the country,” he added. On the same day, Go personally inspected the town’s Sports Complex and provided assistance to 500 struggling residents. The post Bong Go inspects Siniloan isolation facility appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go eyes higher health budget for 2024
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go, during an ambush interview on 22 August, after aiding poor residents and fire victims in Navotas City, expressed his commitment to push for an increased budget for health in 2024. In the interview, Go emphasized the importance of the DOH budget, stating, "Of course, napaka-importante po ng budget para sa ating Department of Health. As your chairman po ng Committee on Health sa Senado, siguraduhin po natin na marestore po ang budget at madagdagan pa.” Go cited that the proposed P10-billion reduction in the Department of Health’s 2024 budget has alarmed many, especially considering ongoing efforts toward pandemic recovery and the need for a more resilient healthcare system. “The more we should invest sa ating healthcare system. Hindi natin akalain na tamaan tayo ng pandemya. Mas mabuti nang handa tayo sa anumang pandemyang darating sa buhay natin,” said Go. Go also highlighted the government's obligations, especially towards healthcare workers, and recalled the efforts made last year to increase the DOH budget from P296 billion to P316 billion. He mentioned various initiatives, including the additional budget for Cancer Assistance Fund for cancer treatment assistance, regulation of health facilities and services, budget for Health Facilities Enhancement Program (HFEP), medical assistance for indigent patients, and health emergency allowance. The senator's foresight was evident when he recalled the near reduction of the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine budget in 2019, a crucial office that conducts tests for COVID-19. "Kutob ko lang po noon, muntik na nilang bawasan sa proposal ng Department of Health budget, binawasan ang RITM. Sino bang mag-aakala na ang RITM ang pinaka-importanteng opisina noong pandemya?,” he recalled. Go’s intuition then as sponsor of the health budget led to the restoration and augmentation of the budget for RITM during the deliberations for the 2020 national budget just in time before the pandemic hit the country. "Dagdagan natin ang budget sa health. Unahin natin ang kalusugan ng bawat Pilipino. Ang kalusugan ay katumbas ng buhay ng bawat Pilipino,” he stressed. Other senators also expressed the need for adequate funding for the healthcare system, especially in treating non-communicable chronic diseases and implementing the Universal Healthcare Law. Senator Sonny Angara, chairperson of the Senate Finance Committee, expressed confidence that the health department’s budget would be increased, highlighting that legislators historically augment medical assistance for indigents. Senators Francis Tolentino, JV Ejercito, Bong Revilla, Aquilino Pimentel III, and Grace Poe also called for careful scrutiny of the DOH budget, emphasizing the need to address the sector's needs better, with no wastage and leakages, especially in the purchase of vaccines and other medical supplies. Go’s advocacy of bringing public health services closer to poor Filipinos align with President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s priority of bringing specialized medical services closer to other parts of the country. Go has successfully sponsored and is one of the authors of the Regional Specialty Centers bill in the Senate, taking a step towards a healthier and more resilient Philippines. The post Bong Go eyes higher health budget for 2024 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go inspects Super Health Center in Ibaan, Batangas
On Friday, 2 June, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go took the initiative to personally visit the recently constructed Ibaan Super Health Center in Batangas. He inspected the facility and demonstrated his ongoing efforts to enhance access to government health services for the Filipino people. In his speech, Go emphasized the importance of accessible healthcare services for the Filipino people. He highlighted the Super Health Center initiative to bring basic medical services closer to the community. “Ngayon, nandito po ako sa Ibaan para po sa pagbisita ng inyong Super Health Center. Yan po ay inisyatibo natin noon na kung saan po ay pwede natin ilapit ang serbisyo medikal sa ating kababayan,” said Go. “D’yan po sa Super Health Center, pwede po manganak, dental, laboratory, check-up, at iba pa na pangunahing serbisyo medikal. Makakatulong po yan para hindi na kayo pumunta pa sa siyudad na may mga ospital,” added Go. The Super Health Center is an improved version of a rural health center which offers basic health services, such as database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray and ultrasound), pharmacy and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service, oncology centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation center and telemedicine, where remote diagnosis and treatment of patients will be done. In Ibaan, the Super Health Center is currently being upgraded and expanded through the efforts of the local government. Through the collective efforts of fellow lawmakers, sufficient funds had been allocated for 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and 322 in 2023. The Department of Health, the lead implementing agency, identifies the strategic areas where they will be constructed. Under the 2022 national budget, Super Health Centers in Batangas were funded in San Pascual, Agoncillo, Calatagan, Lipa City, Malvar, and Taysan, aside from the one in Ibaan. In 2023, more centers were identified to be established in the towns of San Juan, Tingloy, Lian and San Jose. In addition, two more Super Health Centers were funded in Lipa City. Another priority highlighted by Go is the establishment of Regional Specialty Centers in DOH hospitals. He emphasized the importance of bringing specialized services, such as a heart center, in regional hospitals, alleviating the burden on patients who currently need to travel to Manila for critical procedures. The Batangas Medical Center in Batangas City will serve as the location for specialized centers in the province. “Isa pa, priority ko itong Regional Specialty Center sa mga DOH hospital. Priority rin po ito ni Pangulong (Ferdinand) Bongbong Marcos (Jr). Yung Heart Center, pwede na po ilagay sa mga DOH regional hospital,” he said. On 31 May, the Senate ratified the Bicameral Conference Report on the Regional Specialty Centers Act which was principally sponsored by Go. If the bill is enacted, the DOH shall be mandated to establish specialty centers within designated DOH-hospitals in every region within a span of five years. After the inspection, Go proceeded to the Recto gymnasium in Ibaan where he led a relief operation for 1,000 indigent Batangueños. The senator and his team distributed grocery packs, masks, vitamins, shirts, and snacks. They also gave away bicycles, mobile phones, shoes, watches, and balls for basketball and volleyball to select recipients. Meanwhile, the Department of Social Welfare and Development gave financial assistance. Addressing his fellow Batangueños, Go expressed his strong connection to the province, despite being born and raised in Mindanao. “Marahil po’y magtataka kayo kung bakit nasabi kong Batangueño ako. Totoo pong Batangueño ako. Ang middle name ko po ay Tesoro, mga taga-Tanauan, mga taga-Santo Tomas ang lolo’t lola ko. Pero laking Mindanao po ako, nakapag-aral naman po ako sa Maynila ng sampung taon. Ang ugaling Bisaya at pinaghalong Batangueño, ang resulta po niyan ay tapang at malasakit sa kapwa Pilipino,” shared Go. Meanwhile, in line with his vision to make medical services accessible to all, Go likewise encouraged his fellow Batangueños to avail medical assistance programs from the Malasakit Centers at Batangas Medical Center and Batangas Provincial Hospital in Lemery. Malasakit Centers bring together representatives from the DSWD, DOH, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. These one-stop shops aim to support impoverished patients in reducing their hospital costs to the least possible amount. Go is the principal author and sponsor of Republic Act No. 11463 or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which institutionalized the Malasakit Centers program. To date, there are now 157 Malasakit Centers which has already helped more than seven million Filipinos nationwide, according to the DOH. In his message, Go expressed his gratitude to various local officials for their unwavering commitment to serving the community. He specifically acknowledged the efforts of Batangas 4th District Representative Lianda Bolilia, Governor Hermilando Mandanas, Vice Governor Mark Leviste, Ibaan Mayor Edralyn Joy Salvame, Vice Mayor Juvy Mendoza, and others. Following the relief activity, Go undertook an inspection of a multipurpose building which will be a new municipal hall in the town. As vice chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, he was instrumental in securing the necessary funding for the project. To help boost the economic progress in the province, Go likewise supported the construction of multipurpose buildings in Alitagtag, Batangas City, Lemery, Lipa City, Mabini, San Jose, San Juan, San Luis, San Nicolas, Santo Tomas and Taal; concretion of farm-to-market roads in Agoncillo, Laurel, Nasugbu and Tuy; acquisition of ambulance units in Ibaan and Lemery; and the acquisition of multipurpose vehicles in Lipa City and San Juan. On the same day, Go also aided struggling communities in Sta. Teresita, Batangas. The post Bong Go inspects Super Health Center in Ibaan, Batangas appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go visits Cambodia, supports Filipino athletes participating in SEA Games
Senator Bong Go, Chair of the Senate Committee on Sports, visited Cambodia and showed his support for the Filipino athletes competing in the Southeast Asian Games, together with his colleagues Senate President Miguel “Migz” Zubiri and Senator Francis “Tol” Tolentino, among other officials, this weekend. A known advocate for Philippine sports, Go remarked that the visit to Cambodia was aimed at boosting the morale of Filipino athletes and showing them that they have the full support of the Philippine government. Go also took the opportunity to encourage the athletes to give their best in the competition and to bring home medals for the Philippines. He reminded them that they are not only representing themselves but also the entire nation and that their performance will inspire young Filipinos to pursue their dreams in sports. “Andito po kami ni SP Migz (at) Senator Tolentino, full force po ang Senado to support our athletes. As Chair po ng Committee on Sports, full support po ako palagi sa lahat ng sports. We’re here to support our athletes,” highlighted Go in an ambush interview on Friday, 12 May. “Sana po ay humabol tayo. Kilala naman po ang Pilipino na lumalaban. Pusong Pinoy po yan. Go Philippines! Go, go, go for gold!” encouraged Go. The SEA Games is a multi-sport event that takes place every two years, with athletes from 11 Southeast Asian countries participating in various sports competitions. The SEA Games opened last 5 May and it will run until 17 May. During their visit, the senators met with Filipino athletes and coaches and emphasized the importance of sports in promoting unity and understanding among nations. As of 13 May, 11:00 pm, the Philippines has bagged 37 gold, 64 silver, and 77 bronze medals. “Hopefully, makahabol pa rin tayo sa target na gold medals natin. I'm here to support our athletes as Chairman po ng (Senate) Committee on Sports and to boost their morale. Laban lang tayo. Importante (may) pusong Pinoy tayo – talagang lumalaban hanggang dulo. Pakita natin ang kakayahan natin,” expressed Go in an ambush interview during the events on Saturday, 13 May. “Mga atleta, kayo ang inspirasyon ng mga kabataan. Laban lang tayo. Sa mga athletes, goodluck sa inyo (lalo na) yung may mga laban pa sa finals. Goodluck po sa inyong lahat... Dalhin natin ang malaking karangalan para sa ating mga kababayan,” he encouraged. Go then reassured that he will continue working with sports officials and concerned government agencies to strengthen the development of sports in the country and also provide more resources to ensure that Filipino athletes can compete at the highest level. Go added that sports can play a crucial role in promoting health and wellness, fostering unity and camaraderie, and contributing to the economic growth of the nation. He also cited the role of sports in honing the youth and instilling values such as discipline in order to be productive members of society and keeping them away from vices like illegal drugs. For this reason, he sponsored and defended additional funding for the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) during its 2023 budget deliberation, particularly for grassroots sports development and in support of athletes joining international competitions. “Gaya po noon, full support po ako sa ating mga atleta. In fact, ang na-aprubahan po na proposed budget sa PSC noon ay more or less PhP200 million lang. Ako po ang nagsulong na madagdagan po ng PhP1 billion ang (2023) budget po ng PSC para po sa grassroots program at para po suporta sa ating mga atleta nagko-compete po sa SEA Games, Asian Games and even sa Olympics,” Go cited in an ambush interview after his visit to Tondo, Manila on May 10. “Napakaimportante po itong tulong sa ating mga atleta. Kailangan po ng tulong ng gobyerno sa mga atleta at tulong rin po ng pribadong sektor. Kapag nagsama po ‘yang gobyerno at pribadong sektor, malayo po ang ating mararating tulad noong 2019, number 1 po tayo. Nagtulungan po tayo dito, nag-host po tayo dito sa Pilipinas. Number 1 po tayo sa ranking sa SEA Games,” he added. The senator likewise underscored the importance of investing in sports infrastructure and providing more resources for the development of local athletes. He maintained that with proper support, Filipino athletes can compete at the highest level and bring honor to the country. Go earlier authored and co-sponsored Republic Act No. 11470, establishing the National Academy of Sports in 2020 as part of his vision to ensure promising young athletes can further hone their talents while getting a quality education. The NAS is a government-run academy aimed at developing the country’s future athletes by offering quality secondary education with a special curriculum on sports for gifted young Filipinos who want to enhance their physical and mental capabilities in sports. The senator also filed Senate Bill No. 423, or the proposed Philippine National Games Act of 2022, to provide a structure for a more comprehensive national sports program, linking grassroots sports promotion to national sports development. The post Bong Go visits Cambodia, supports Filipino athletes participating in SEA Games appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Go affirms importance of universal access to healthcare in Davao speech
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go recognized the importance of Universal Health Care, particularly amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. He made that emphasis as he attended the opening ceremonies of the 49th Midyear Convention Surgery and Universal Health Care at the SMX Convention Center in SM Lanang Premier, Davao City on Thursday. In his speech, Go cited that the passage of the Universal Health Care Act in 2019 was a significant milestone in the country's journey toward achieving a more equitable and comprehensive healthcare system. However, he also acknowledged that the implementation of the law is not without challenges. “Alam kong malayo pa talaga sa ngayon ‘yung (buong) implementation nitong UHC. Noon, naaprubahan po ito, napirmahan ni dating pangulong (Rodrigo) Duterte noong 2019, malayo pa tayo sa ating inaasam na perpekto po na (implementasyon ng) Universal Health Care,” said Go. “Kailangan pa natin mag-invest sa ating healthcare workforce, mapabuti ang ating mga pasilidad, at dagdagan ang accessibility ng ating mga kababayan sa mga essential medicines at medical supplies,” he said. One of the major challenges in the implementation of UHC cited by Go based on reports is the shortage of health facilities and healthcare workers. “Ang challenge po dito ang trabaho po ng ating DOH (Department of Health), maimplementa ng maayos ang roadmap po ng UHC. Ang very challenging po dito, ‘yung health facilities, ‘yung pagkukulang po ng bilang ng ating mga health workers na ‘yung iba po’y nagtatrabaho sa ibang bansa,” said Go. “Hindi ko naman po masisi na pumupunta pa ‘yung mga nurses sa ibang bansa. Gusto ko rin pong tingnan itong issue na ito, itong mga nurses na napakababa po ‘yung sweldo dito sa ating bansa sa mga private hospitals. Naiintindihan ko naman po, binabalanse naman po ng mga private hospitals (ang kanilang finances) para po ma-sustain nila (ang operasyon),” he added. Despite these challenges, Go emphasized the government's commitment to ensuring that every Filipino can be provided access to affordable health care. “As chair po ng Committee on Health, mayroon po akong oversight function over dito po sa (implementation of) UHC. Kung may reklamo po kayo… pwede po nating tawagin ang DOH, pwede nating tawagin ang PhilHealth, kung mayroon kayong (concern), pwede natin silang imbitahan at tawagin,” he assured. Meanwhile, to complement the implementation of the UHC Act, Go shared that the government has launched several initiatives aimed at improving access to healthcare and making it more affordable. These include addressing rising out-of-pocket expenses on health and establishing or upgrading public hospitals. He also shared the ongoing operations of the Malasakit Centers program, the establishment of Super Health Centers, and the expansion of specialty centers in the country. “I have earlier advocated for an easier and more accessible availing of government assistance. We have passed Republic Act No. 11463 or the Malasakit Centers Law to establish a one-stop shop in DOH hospitals,” said Go. “Malasakit Centers provide accessible and efficient medical assistance to Filipinos by serving as a centralized hub for accessing different government health programs and services from the DOH, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, and PhilHealth,” added Go. According to the DOH, the Malasakit Centers program has already aided over seven million Filipinos across the country. Go is the principal author and sponsor of the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019. Additionally, Go is pushing for the establishment of Super Health Centers, which are medium-sized polyclinics strategically positioned throughout the country to offer basic healthcare services to Filipinos at the grassroots level. Go also introduced Senate Bill No. 1321, also known as the "Specialty Centers in Every Region Act of 2022," aimed at establishing regional specialty centers in DOH hospitals across the country. The establishment of specialty centers is part of the health-related legislative agenda included in the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028 signed by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. During his speech, Go also urged the DOH and Department of Budget and Management to expedite the release and distribution of the mandated allowances for healthcare workers. He also called on PhilHealth to ensure prompt payments to hospitals and health professionals and to consider the financial condition of private health facilities and health professionals. “Alam n’yo po, during the time ng pandemya, nagsalita talaga ako sa Senado. Noong may doctor na namatay, dapat may death benefit silang matatangap but it took two months bago i-release,” lamented Go. “Kawawa naman, nagluluksa ‘yung pamilya. Dapat nga ihatid ‘yung check doon mismo sa doon sa pamamahay ng mga naiwang pamilya. Bakit tatagalan? Anyway, na-Ombudsman na po ‘yung nag-cause ng delay,” he shared. Acknowledging that there is still much work to be done to improve the conditions of healthcare workers, Go expressed support for the review of the Magna Carta for Public Health Workers to update it and address the needs and concerns of health workers. In this regard, Go urged the DOH and the Department of Labor and Employment to review the salaries and compensation of private healthcare workers to make them more competitive. Moreover, Go called for the removal of barriers preventing Filipinos from accessing healthcare services, especially those who are marginalized and vulnerable. “Kailangan natin tiyakin na ang mga benepisyo ng Universal Health Care Act ay maihahatid sa mga tunay na nangangailangan nito, at walang mapag-iiwanang Pilipino,” he said. To conclude, Go urged healthcare workers to prioritize the needs of the marginalized and vulnerable, particularly the poor, helpless, and hopeless Filipinos. “Unahin po natin ang mga mahihirap nating kababayan, ‘yung mga helpless, ‘yung mga hopeless po nating mga kababayan,” said Go. “Let us continue to work together towards achieving a truly universal and equitable healthcare system. I believe that through collaboration and cooperation, we can overcome the challenges we face and build a brighter future for the health and well-being of all Filipinos,” he ended. The post Go affirms importance of universal access to healthcare in Davao speech appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
`Compete with all your heart,’ Go tells SEA Games-bound athletes
On Monday, 24 April, Senator Christopher "Bong" Go expressed his full support for Filipino athletes competing in the 32nd Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia as he attended their send-off ceremony at the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City. The event was led by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. who encouraged the Filipino athletes to go for the gold and bring back the Philippines' number one spot in the Games. In an interview during the event, Go, as chair of the Senate Committee on Sports and a sports enthusiast himself, said he understands the value of sports in the lives of young Filipinos. "Nandirito po ako to support. Being a sports enthusiast, noon pa talagang mahilig na po ako sa sports," said Go. "And that’s one way of encouraging the youth to get into sports and stay away from drugs. Isa po ito sa pamamaraan na ilayo po natin ang ating mga kabataan sa iligal na droga. Get into sports, stay away from drugs, and keep them healthy and fit," he added. To help in this cause, Go shared that he sponsored and defended additional funding for the Philippine Sports Commission during its 2023 budget deliberation, particularly for grassroots sports development and in support of athletes joining international competitions. "Gaya noon, full support po ako sa ating mga atleta. Not only sa SEA Games, Asian Games, Olympics, full support po ako," he said. Go continued, "In fact, during the budget deliberation, ang budget po ng PSC less than P200 million. Ako po ‘yung nag-defend at nag-suggest ng dagdag sa pondo nila." "Nagdagdag po tayo ng P1 billion sa budget ng PSC including budget na po para sa Southeast Asian Games, sa iba pang mga grassroots program, not only sa international competition, pati sa local," he added. Particularly, the increase in the PSC's 2023 budget reflected in the General Appropriations Act is intended to support Filipino athletes in the 2022 Asian Games, 2023 Southeast Asian Games, and 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. Furthermore, athletes competing in the ASEAN Para Games, Asian Indoor Martial Arts Games, World Combat Games, World Beach Games, Asian Beach Games, and World Beach Games will receive similar support. Portions of the funds were allotted for the country's hosting of the FIBA World Cup in 2023 as well as for several sports programs, such as Batang Pinoy, the Philippine National Games, and the grassroots program under the Sports Development Council. There are also funds allocated for the development of sports infrastructure across the country, as well as for advanced research and development in sports sciences and sports technology. When asked about his message to the athletes, Go echoed Marcos' words of encouragement, "Sinabi na rin po ni Pangulong Bongbong Marcos kanina, 'Go, go, go for the gold.' Ibig sabihin sana magtsa-champion po tayo. Ibalik natin ‘yung pagiging No.1 natin." Go reminded the athletes that the important thing is to fight and compete with all their hearts, as Filipinos are known for their passion and perseverance. Around 860 Filipino athletes, 76 reserved players, and 347 sports officials, medical personnel, and support staff will travel to Cambodia to compete in 608 events across 38 sports categories from 5-17 May. With the impressive performance of Filipino athletes in the 2021 SEA Games in Vietnam, where they brought home 227 medals, including 52 gold, 70 silver, and 105 bronze, the Philippines is poised to once again make a strong showing in the upcoming games. In the 2019 SEA Games, the Philippines hosted the event and emerged as the overall champion with 149 gold medals, 117 silver medals, and 121 bronze medals. The National Athletes and Coaches Benefits and Incentives Act, or Republic Act No. 10699, entitles SEA Games gold medalists to a P300,000 incentive, silver medalists to P150,000, and bronze medalists to P60,000. During the Duterte administration, Go advocated for additional benefits to medalists. An advocate for grassroots sports development, Go earlier authored and co-sponsored RA 11470, establishing the National Academy of Sports in 2020 as part of his vision to ensure promising young athletes can further hone their talents while getting quality education. The NAS is a government-run academy aimed at developing the country’s future athletes by offering quality secondary education with a special curriculum on sports for gifted young Filipinos who want to enhance their physical and mental capabilities in sports. The senator also filed Senate Bill No. 423, or the proposed Philippine National Games Act of 2022, to provide a structure for a more comprehensive national sports program, linking grassroots sports promotion to national sports development The post `Compete with all your heart,’ Go tells SEA Games-bound athletes appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
P245 M allocated for Judges-at-Large Act; Angara sees faster resolution of cases
Sen. Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara assured the Judiciary Sunday it would be able to expedite the adjudication of several pending court cases with the funds Congress provided for the appointment of judges-at-large under the 2021 national budget. Senator Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara (Senator Sonny Angara Official Facebook Page / FILE PHOTO / MANILA BULLETIN) Angara, chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, said a total of P244.988 million was included in the budget of the Judiciary for the implementation of Republic Act 11459 or the Judges-at-Large Act.Enacted on Aug. 13, 2019, the law mandates the creation of judges-at-large posts for the regional and municipal trial courts in order to decongest the courts of its dockets.These judges-at-large would have no permanent salas and may be assigned by the Supreme Court as acting or assisting judges to any Regional Trial Court (RTC) or Municipal Trial Court (MTC) in order to decongest the courts of its dockets.“For 2020, the first year of implementation of the law, we provided funding to cover for the creation of 50 judges-at-large posts,” Angara said in a statement.“For 2021, we will double the number of posts to 100 as requested by our Chief Justice Diosdado Peralta,” Angara said.The senator also said these judges-at-large are entitled to salaries, privileges, allowances, emoluments, benefits, rank, and title of regular RTC and MTC judges.Angara also said the Judiciary’s budget for 2021 also includes a P50-million augmentation to cover for the deployment of Judiciary marshals to secure the justices, judges, and other court officials.He said the inclusion of this funding was prompted by the appeals of the Judiciary for the creation of a judicial marshal service as the threats and attacks against judges and other court officials continue to take place in the country. The Senate is set to approve Senate Bill No. 1947 or the proposed Judiciary Marshals Act, of which Angara is one of the authors. Once approved, an office of the Judiciary marshals would be established under the Supreme Court and its continued funding will be ensured as part of the annual General Appropriations Act (GAA).“We want to sustain the implementation of the Judges-at-Large Act to help ensure the delivery of speedy justice in the country,” the lawmaker said.“With the appointment of more judges, we can expect to see the resolution of more cases and eventually free up the courts of its backlog,” Angara added. .....»»
EDITORIAL — ‘Very rotten’
A process has long been in place for the approval of the national budget. Malacañang, through the Department of Budget and Management, submits its proposed national expenditure program to Congress, and both chambers deliberate on the NEP to come up with their respective versions of the budget bill......»»
House of Representatives ratifies bicam report on P3.002-T national budget for 2016
MANILA, Dec. 17 (PNA) — The House of Representatives assured there will be no reenactment of this year’s national budget by ratifying Wednesday night the bicameral conference committee report on House Bill........»»
Senate approves P5.77-trillion national budget for 2024
The 2024 General Appropriations Bill (GAB) — or House Bill 8980 — received 21 affirmative votes and no negative votes, while one senator abstained......»»
CHR risks zero budget for supporting abortion
Despite the Philippines being a secular state, the Commission on Human Rights may receive a “zero budget” next year after four male senators questioned the CHR’s position supporting a bill that decriminalizes abortion in the Philippines......»»
House transmits approved budget bill to Senate
The House of Representatives yesterday transmitted to the Senate the proposed 2024 General Appropriations Bill that contains some P194.5 billion in realigned funds......»»
House sends 2024 proposed budget to Senate
In a special session held on Saturday to welcome Japan Prime Minister Kishida Fumio, the House of Representatives officially transmitted the General Appropriations Bill or the proposed 2024 national budget to the Senate......»»
Bong Go recognizes barangay health workers’ role in community development
Following his visit to Babak District the previous day, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and a staunch advocate of community development, attended another Provincial Health Information Management System Orientation in the Island Garden City of Samal, Davao del Norte on Wednesday, 25 October. The said program aims to enhance healthcare delivery, streamline information flow, and ensure that citizens across the region have access to quality health services. Go personally accorded recognition to Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) for their efforts to promote the health and well-being of their constituents. He also noted that BHWs are the backbone of healthcare in the country, acting as the first line of defense in ensuring the welfare of their respective communities. "Bilang isang senador gusto kong pasalamatan ang ating mga barangay health workers. Hindi natin mararating ito ngayon kung hindi dahil sa inyong sakripisyo na magserbisyo. Dapat kayo ang pasalamatan ngayong araw. Palakpakan natin ang ating mga barangay health workers,” expressed Go. “Sa totoo lang sa panahon ng pandemya nahirapan talaga tayo. Pero (dahil) sa inyong pagtutulungan at pagserbisyo sa mamamayan, nalampasan natin ito. Hindi tayo makapag-gather ngayon o makapagtipon kung hindi dahil sa inyo. Ganito man ang inyong trabaho, nakita ko ang importansya at kung anong serbisyo para sa ating mga kababayan lalo na sa barangay level ang iniaambag ninyo,” he continued. During the event, Go was also joined by Councilor Sonny Lanorias, BHW City Coordinator Christine Enriquez Lara, BHW District Federation President Alicia Sastrillas, and District Coordinator Arlene Pacquaio, among others. The senator also extended assistance to around 200 BHWs present, such as gift packs, masks, vitamins, shirts, meals, and balls for basketball and volleyball. He also gave away bicycles, mobile phones, shoes, and watches to select recipients. He also extended similar assistance to the 201 BHWs who attended the previous day. On October 23, around 250 BHWs were also given similar assistance by his staff. Continuing his message, Go pledged his commitment to working with the local government to ensure that BHWs receive proper training, resources, and compensation. The lawmaker outlined his legislative initiatives, specifically on two key bills: Senate Bill No. (SBN) 197 or the proposed Magna Carta for Barangays, and SBN 427, or the Barangay Health Workers Compensation Bill. The proposed Magna Carta for Barangays aims to bolster support for barangays, enabling them to effectively carry out their responsibilities. This measure proposes that barangay officials, including the Punong Barangay, members of the Sangguniang Barangay, the Sangguniang Kabataan chairperson, the barangay secretary, and the barangay treasurer, be accorded treatment similar to that of regular government employees. If this bill becomes law, it will entitle them to salaries, benefits, allowances, and other related perks. On the other hand, SBN 427 proposed granting BHWs a monthly honorarium, coupled with other benefits encompassing allowances, job security, consistent training, and opportunities for skill development. Furthermore, the bill extends these benefits to encompass support from institutions like the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and the Pag-IBIG Fund. “Na-hearing na po ito sa sub-committee on Health sa pangunguna ni Senator JV (Ejercito) at mayroon pang mga susunod na committee hearings at papakinggan po ang mga LGUs syempre, unang-una rito ‘yung kakayahan po nilang magbigay ng kompensasyon,” shared Go in an interview after his visit to Kapalong on October 24. “Ito pong bill na ito kung saan po ay magkakaroon sila ng mga karagdagang benepisyo… Kung sakaling maisabatas magkakaroon po sila ng monthly honorarium. Kasama na diyan ang job security, regular trainings, skill development opportunities, along with a potential to acquire civil service eligibility,” he continued. Furthermore, Go also referenced SBN 2399, a proposal aimed at declaring April 7 as Barangay Health and Nutrition Workers (BHNW) Day. This initiative acknowledges the pivotal role played by BHNWs in the delivery of primary healthcare services within communities. Go has reaffirmed his dedication to enhancing healthcare accessibility and quality. This commitment is manifested through his backing of the continued operations of Malasakit Centers, the construction of Super Health Centers, and the establishment of Regional Specialty Centers across the nation. A brainchild of Go, the Malasakit Centers program is designed to help ensure that particularly poor and indigent patients have convenient access to the medical assistance programs offered by partnered agencies. This was institutionalized in 2019 through the passage of RA 11463, which was principally authored and sponsored by Go. Currently, 159 operational Malasakit centers have assisted more than seven million Filipinos nationwide, according to the Department of Health (DOH). The senator was likewise instrumental in pushing for adequate funding to ensure that more Super Health Centers are established across the country. Some 307 Super Health Centers were funded in 2022 and 322 more in 2023, through the initiative of Go, DOH, local government units (LGUs), and fellow lawmakers. The Super Health Centers will offer a range of healthcare services, including database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray, ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service, oncology centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation centers, and telemedicine, through which remote diagnosis and treatment of patients are made possible. Moreover, the senator is the principal sponsor and one of the authors of Republic Act 11959 or the Regional Specialty Centers Act. The said law mandates the establishment of Regional Specialty Centers within existing DOH regional hospitals. During the previous day, Go also visited Davao del Norte to participate in the blessing and turnover of a multipurpose building in the Municipality of Kapalong. This project was funded with Go's support as vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance. He also inspected Balay ni Maria, a facility completed in 2020, and another project he supported the funding of. This infrastructure served as an isolation center during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The post Bong Go recognizes barangay health workers’ role in community development appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Stray animal adoption urged to lessen abandonment cases
Senator Mark Villar on Thursday expressed concern about the increasing cases of animal abandonment in the country. Villar has filed a proposed measure strengthening the adoption of stray and impounded animals. Senate Bill 2257 seeks the provision of incentives to those who would adopt stray and impounded animals to lessen abandonment cases. Citing data from the Philippine Animal Welfare Society, Villar underscored the need to improve the government’s program for rescuing abandoned animals. According to PAWS, there were around 12 million stray cats and dogs in 2019, which are either logged as former family pets or those who have reproduced in the streets due to lack of proper shelter. Villar said the rising numbers of abandoned animals remain highly disproportionate to the support they ought to receive. “This 12 million number of strays we have in record was back in 2019. Apat na taon na po ang nakalipas. With the pandemic placing a great burden to Filipinos, we can only expect na mas dumami na po ang mga stray animals na walang proper care and shelter,” Villar said. “We must act on this and extend our aid in securing safe animal shelters,” he said. The People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals or PETA said animal homelessness in the Philippines “has reached a crisis point” as stray animals struggle to live unsupervised in the streets and impounded ones are euthanized every month in municipal pounds. The unfortunate fates of strays and impounded animals are due to the limited resources of both public and private shelters, it added. Villar cited the case of a certain local government unit in the National Capital Region which previously reported that its city pound captures an average of 200 stray animals weekly, yet “they do not have sufficient resources to maintain their care.” Villar stressed the need to exhaust all means to ensure that proper aid is given to animals left in shelters. “My heart goes to these animals who are forced to these unfortunate living situations, and some of them to their untimely deaths because they cannot be cared for. Bilang isang animal lover at pet welfare advocate, I will do my best to lessen these rising numbers of strays and euthanized impounded animals,” he said. SB 2257 or the Act Strengthening the Adoption of Stray and Impounded Animals, seeks to encourage the adoption of stray and impounded animals by providing tax incentive benefits to any individual or group that shall adopt stray and impounded animals, to reduce cases of euthanasia for stray and impounded animals. The bill also outlines the provision for adoption, highlighting the role of LGUs in facilitating the implementation of animal adoption programs. “Through this bill, we are hoping that the number of strays and impounded animals will decrease as it will provide guidelines for adoptions in close coordination with LGUs,” Villar said. “We are also looking forward to more Filipinos who will be encouraged to adopt, not just because of the tax incentives this bill provides, but also because of their love and care for animals,” he added. The senator lamented that while there are multiple non-government organizations and private shelters that encourage the adoption of rescued animals, “the pet adoption rate in the country remains at a concerning low rate, less than one percent in particular.” “I hope that the bill will increase the adoption rate of stray pets so as to ensure that animals will be brought up in comfortable homes rather than being forced to survive in the streets,” said Villar. The post Stray animal adoption urged to lessen abandonment cases appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go assists Talitay displaced workers
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, in coordination with Mayor Sidik Amiril, provided assistance to residents of the Municipality of Talitay, Maguindanao del Norte on Monday, 23 October. Go’s outreach staff joined a distribution activity at the Talitay-covered court and provided snacks, masks, and vitamins to 268 indigents, particularly displaced workers. They also gave away shirts, balls for basketball and volleyball, a mobile phone, and shoes to select recipients. The beneficiaries also qualified for livelihood support from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) after they have completed DOLE’s Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program. "Patuloy po tayong magtulungan upang mas mapabuti pa ang kalagayan ng ating mga disadvantaged at displaced workers. Magkasama tayo sa layuning ito na makabuo ng mas maginhawa at mas matatag na lipunan para sa lahat ng Pilipino," he said. To ensure that those who reside in rural areas lacking job opportunities are taken care of, Go also filed Senate Bill No. (SBN) 420, which seeks to offer temporary employment to eligible members of low-income rural households who are ready to perform unskilled physical labor for a period of time if enacted into law. Meanwhile, Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, shared his continuing efforts to bring government health services closer to Filipinos. He encouraged the beneficiaries to make use of the Malasakit Centers if they are in need of assistance in settling their hospital bills. “Kung mayroon po kayong karamdaman, halimbawa masakit ang dibdib ninyo, at kailangan n’yo pong magpaospital at kailangan n’yo pong magpaopera sa Davao o sa Maynila sa Philippine Heart Center, magsabi lang po kayo. Tutulungan ho namin kayong magpaopera, pati pamasahe po ninyo tutulungan ho namin kayo,” Go said. Within Maguindanao del Norte, Malasakit Centers are housed in Sanitarium Hospital in Sultan Kudarat and Cotabato Regional and Medical Center in Cotabato City. Residents of Maguindanao del Sur can access the Malasakit Center at Maguindanao Provincial Hospital in Shariff Aguak. “Ang target po ng Malasakit Center ay ma-cover ang inyong billing. Kaya huwag po kayong mahihiyang lumapit sa Malasakit Center dahil para po yan sa inyo, mga kababayan kong Pilipino. At ngayon po, meron na po tayong 159 na Malasakit Centers sa buong Pilipinas na handang tumulong po sa inyo,” he said. As a one-stop shop where poor and indigent patients can access government medical assistance, the Malasakit Center was initiated by Go in 2018 and institutionalized under Republic Act No. 11463 in 2019, a legislation he principally sponsored and authored. The center is home to various agencies including the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO), ensuring accessibility to medical assistance programs. Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, has also supported several projects in the province, including the construction of public markets in Buldon and Matanog; and the construction of a multipurpose building in Matanog. The post Bong Go assists Talitay displaced workers appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Solon lambasts ‘conflict of interest’ as private firms leading ASF vaccine trials
A lawmaker on Wednesday grilled the Bureau of Animal Industry for allowing private suppliers to lead vaccine trials on African Swine Fever. In a Senate hearing on Wednesday, BAI Director Paul Limson admitted that they are just “monitoring” the field trials. Limson's remarks came after Senator Cynthia Villar mentioned that the BAI should be leading the trials to make more independent assessments of the vaccines. “Justify niyo nga sa akin bakit ninyo ginagawa, kasi ako nasho-shock (Can you justify it to me why are you not doing it because its shcoking me). You don't think there is a conflict of interest?" Villar, who chairs the Senate panel on agriculture, asked Limson. Limson cited the Food and Drug Administration guidelines stating that "the initiation, management, and or financing of clinical trials" is the responsibility of sponsors—these could be individuals, companies, institutions, or organizations. the FDA guidelines also allow sponsors to tap Contract Research Organizations to conduct the trials. Meanwhile, Villar also criticized the private suppliers of vaccines for apparently hastening the process even if there are no approved vaccines for ASF yet. She then suggested that the budget should be realigned first in the indemnification of hog raisers affected by the disease while waiting for the approval of ASF vaccines. The Department of Agriculture-BAI has earlier asked the Food and Drug Administration to certify a Vietnam-made ASF vaccine for its immediate distribution in the country. It was followed by the bureau’s endorsement to the FDA for the issuance of a Certificate of Product Registration—which will allow the commercial release of the vaccine in the country. On June 2, BAI Assistant Director Arlyn Vytiaco said they have recommended the AVAC doses—which have been proven "effective" - following the completion of safety and efficacy trials in at least six areas in Luzon. Vytiaco noted that 100 percent of the hogs who were vaccinated during the trials produced antibodies, and showed "no ill or side effects.” However, the BAI was still requesting the FDA for the CPR of the vaccine. The first ASF case was detected in the Philippines in 2019. Villar lamented that “lack of vaccine or effective treatment has made the control of the disease very challenging.” The post Solon lambasts ‘conflict of interest’ as private firms leading ASF vaccine trials appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»