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Miss Saigon cast embrace full circle moments in Philippine return
Excited is an understatement for what the "Miss Saigon" cast feels in bringing the musical back to Philippine shores......»»
UV upsets top seed USJ-R, marches to Cesafi high school finals
CEBU CITY, Philippines— The University of the Visayas (UV) Baby Green Lancers marched to the Cebu Schools Athletic Foundation, Inc. (CESAFI) high school finals for the first time since 2018. This was after UV staged one of Cesafi Season 23’s biggest basketball upsets by defeating the top-seed University of San Jose-Recoletos (USJ-R) Baby Jaguars. UV.....»»
Ilocos Sur micro-entreps get help from Bong Go
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go’s team, in coordination with Governor Jeremias “Jerry” Singson, Vigan City Mayor Jose Bonito Singson Jr., Caoayan Mayor Germelina Goulart and other local government officials, provided assistance to micro-business owners at the Vigan Conservation Complex and Caoayan municipal gymnasium in Ilocos Sur on Monday, 23 October. A total of 68 individuals received masks and snacks, while select recipients were given shoes, shirts and balls for basketball from Go’s team. Aside from the assistance from Go, the beneficiaries also qualified for the Department of Trade and Industry’s program that Go supported which provides livelihood kits to assist communities affected by crises in their recovery efforts. “Patuloy tayong sumusuporta sa mga programang pangkabuhayan lalo na yung mga makakatulong sa mga mahihirap na nahaharap sa krisis. Sa ating pakikipagtulungan, ang DTI ay nagbibigay ng mga negosyo kits sa mga kwalipikadong benepisyaryo at tinuturuan sila kung paano palalaguin ang kanilang mga negosyo para mapakinabangan ng pamilya ang kanilang kikitain. Nagbigay naman tayo ng karagdagang suporta sa mga benepisyaryo ng programang ito,” he explained in a video message. Also in attendance were DTI 1 Regional Director Grace Falgui-Baluyan and Provincial Director Charry Quodala. Go acknowledged how the COVID-19 pandemic adversely affected businesses in the country. In response to this, Go is one of the authors and co-sponsors of Republic Act 11960, known as the One Town, One Product Philippines Act. This legislation serves to institutionalize the OTOP Philippines Program, a strategic initiative tailored to nurturing the growth of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises throughout the country. The essence of the OTOP Program centers on the identification and promotion of distinctive products originating from various towns and municipalities. In doing so, it not only encourages entrepreneurship but also effectively harnesses local resources while preserving our rich cultural heritage. This approach facilitates increased visibility, market access, and enhanced competitiveness for micro-businesses, thereby making a substantial contribution to our country’s economic resilience. "Hindi lamang ito tungkol sa pag-angat ng MSMEs. Ito'y pagkakataon para sa bawat Pilipino, kahit saan man sila naroroon, na magtagumpay sa negosyo," he elaborated. "When communities take the lead in product development, we see more sustainable and culturally relevant outcomes. This is what OTOP aims to achieve," Go said. Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, emphasized the role played by Malasakit Centers in ensuring convenient access to the government's medical assistance programs. As part of his commitment to alleviating the struggles faced by individuals and families while improving their access to essential healthcare services, Go initiated the establishment of Malasakit Centers in 2018. This was institutionalized in 2019 through the passage of RA 11463, which was principally authored and sponsored by Go. Since its inception, the Malasakit Centers have helped more than seven million poor and indigent patients nationwide. Currently, there are 159 Malasakit Centers, including those at Ilocos Sur Provincial Hospital (formerly known as Gabriela Silang General Hospital) in Vigan City and Ilocos Sur Medical Center in Candon City. Moreover, Go also supported the construction of more than 600 Super Health Centers in strategic locations nationwide including four in Ilocos Sur as identified by the Department of Health which is the lead implementing agency. The initiative was a collaborative effort among lawmakers, LGUs and the DOH. According to Go, Super Health Centers are designed to focus on primary care, consultation, and early detection of diseases, further strengthening the healthcare sector in the country, especially in rural communities. It will also help decongest hospitals. Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, also supported various infrastructure projects, including the road improvements in Magsingal and Narvacan; acquisition of medical equipment for public health facilities in Cervantes, Magsingal, Narvacan, Salcedo, Sinait and Sta. Lucia; acquisition of ambulance units in Burgos, Nagbukel, San Emilio and Tagudin; and construction of multipurpose buildings, halls and gyms in Bantay, Cabugao, Santa, Sigay and Sugpon. The post Ilocos Sur micro-entreps get help from Bong Go 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......»»
Brownlee formula
The issue surrounding Justin Brownlee is a major blackeye to Philippine basketball. It is yet another heartbreaker for Filipinos, who were hoping and praying to see the national team reassert its dominance in the international arena. For the longest time, the Filipinos had struggled internationally. In the Asian Games, for instance, the Philippines emerged victorious in its first four editions — 1951 in New Delhi, 1954 in Manila, 1958 in Tokyo, and 1962 in Jakarta before suffering a string of frustrating finishes. The closest we got to the gold medal was in 1990 when the Basketball Association of the Philippines tasked the Philippine Basketball Association with assembling a team that would reclaim our Asian glory. It was a tall order at the time as the Philippines was coming off a bitter setback at the hands of Malaysia in the 1989 Southeast Asian Games in Kuala Lumpur. The BAP knew that only an Asian crown would soothe the pain of a nation craving revenge. But it didn’t happen. Coached by Robert “Sonny” Jaworski, the team bannered by Allan Caidic, Benjie Paras, Ramon Fernandez, Samboy Lim, and Chito Loyzaga surrendered to powerhouse China featuring Shan Tao and Ma Jian in the gold medal match. Eight years later, Tim Cone was given the marching orders to assemble another star-studded squad to represent the country in the Bangkok Asian Games in 1998. But like Jaworski, his bitter coaching nemesis at the time, Cone was also unsuccessful as his Centennial Team had to settle for bronze behind China and South Korea. In the next edition in Busan in 2002, hopes were high. Despite a sudden coaching change after American mentor Ron Jacobs suffered a stroke in the final stretch of preparations, Jong Uichico was still able to form a solid team that had a mix of Filipino-foreign stars like Asi Taulava, Eric Menk, and Rudy Hatfield, as well as homegrown stars like Olsen Racela, Kenneth Duremdes, and Danny Ildefonso. But fate wrote a cruel script. The Philippines was ahead, 68-66, in the final 23.9 seconds of the semifinal clash against South Korea. A victory would have sent the Filipinos to the gold medal match against China, while a setback would relegate them to a battle for bronze against Kazakhstan. Racela was at the charity stripe for a chance to ice the game and seal the victory. But he missed both free shots. In a shocking — and heartbreaking — turn of events, Korean gunner Lee Sang Min buried a long three-pointer off a broken play at the buzzer that sent the host country to the finals. The players were crushed while a river of tears flowed through the streets of Manila as the entire country couldn’t believe how merciless the basketball gods could be. Since then, Philippine basketball has been reduced to a mere footnote in Asian basketball. We bombed out of the medal podium in Doha in 2006 and Guangzhou in 2010. We even suffered international embarrassment when head coach Chot Reyes instructed naturalized player Marcus Douthit to shoot at our own basket in Incheon in 2014. In 2018, a legitimate National Basketball Association campaigner, Jordan Clarkson, came along and was billed as the hero who would save Philippine basketball. But he was unsuccessful. The Filipinos’ string of misfortunes continued as Gilas Pilipinas settled for fifth place. Then here came Brownlee, tapped to see action as a naturalized player in the Hangzhou Asian Games. The 35-year-old American was tasked to power a team already familiar to him — guys he had been playing with for more than five years. The coach — Cone — had been his mentor since he arrived in Manila in 2016 and led Barangay Ginebra San Miguel to six PBA titles while winning three Best Import honors. There was no honeymoon period to speak of. He hit the ground running. The result was impressive as Brownlee dropped 36 points to lead Gilas Pilipinas to a razor-thin 84-83 win over Iran in the quarterfinals, before dropping back-to-back three-point bombs in their miraculous 77-76 victory over host China in the semifinals. The Filipinos won their first gold medal in 61 years following a 70-60 victory over Jordan in the final, but an asterisk was attached to the victory after Brownlee tested positive for Carboxy-THC, a banned substance linked to the use of cannabis. At this point, it is unknown whether Brownlee will contest the findings or how long his possible suspension will be. What is clear is that Brownlee made a tremendous impact on Philippine basketball as he proved that the best way to win an international title is to field a naturalized player who is very familiar with the Filipinos’ style of play. Brownlee may not be as exciting and flashy as Clarkson or as tall as Douthit and Blatche, but he knows Philippine basketball like the back of his hand. It’s time for the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas to create more Justin Brownlees by recruiting young foreign players who are willing to stay in the country for a longer period — not just to earn and play as imports in the PBA — but to win the hearts and minds of these basketball-crazy Filipinos. Brownlee’s professional career is in great peril, and we may not see him don the Gilas or Ginebra jerseys again. But we should always remember his most significant contribution to Philippine basketball. Nope, it wasn’t the incredible play he delivered against China or how he stood his ground against Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and the powerful Jordanians that led to the country’s first Asian Games title in 61 years. His most important contribution was the idea that to gain international success, the federation must recruit a naturalized player not based on skills, height, or popularity but on his love, respect, and dedication to the country he wishes to represent. The post Brownlee formula appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
ArenaPlus links partnership with MPBL to bring enjoyable, entertaining playoffs
ArenaPlus, an online sports betting platform in the country, proudly announced its partnership this year with the men's professional basketball league in the country, the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League, as its official sportsbook partner. MPBL, founded by sports legend Manny Pacquiao in 2018, aims to provide opportunities for homegrown basketball players to represent their cities and/or provinces and to give rising talents an avenue to showcase their skills and abilities. This season is truly exceptional as the league continues to invite more cities and provinces to join the league and bring their basketball pride onto the court. Sixteen professional teams will compete in the 2023 MPBL Playoffs. Among these are the Nueva Ecija Rice Vanguards, Bacoor City Strikers, GenSan Warriors, and Pampanga Giant Lanterns. ArenaPlus, as the leading sports betting app in the country, is fully committed to making this holistic goal a reality, making sports truly entertaining for everyone. The brand believes that sports like basketball are a staple of entertainment for Filipinos across the Philippine cities and provinces, creating exceptional and remarkable basketball talents that bring a bright future for the professional basketball scene in the country. This partnership also testifies to the brand's expanding efforts to make sports enjoyable anytime and anywhere. The 2023 MPBL division quarterfinals will begin on October 06, 2023. You can watch the playoffs live on Cignal’s MPTV, OnePH, or on the ArenaPlus website and social media pages. To learn more about ArenaPlus, visit arenaplus.net and download the app from Google Play and the App Store. “ArenaPlus, Astig sa Sports'' The post ArenaPlus links partnership with MPBL to bring enjoyable, entertaining playoffs appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Hong Kong flooded by heaviest rainfall in 140 years
Hong Kong was flooded by the heaviest rainfall in nearly 140 years on Friday, leaving the city's streets and some subway stations under water and forcing its schools to close. Just across the border, authorities in China's tech hub Shenzhen recorded the heaviest rains since records began in 1952. Climate change has increased the intensity of tropical storms, experts say, with more rain and stronger gusts leading to flash floods and coastal damage. The heavy rains in Hong Kong started on Thursday and in the hour leading up to midnight, the city's weather observatory recorded hourly rainfall of 158.1 millimeters at its headquarters, the highest since records began in 1884. On Friday afternoon, the Hospital Authority said at least 110 people were hospitalized due to injuries, with four in serious condition. A man was found unconscious off the shore of western Hong Kong Island and declared dead at the hospital, though authorities were still investigating if the death was flood-related. The city's highest rainstorm warning level, "black", was hoisted for a record-breaking 16 hours before being lowered at 3:40 pm Friday, with rainfall mostly easing by late afternoon. "It's absolutely shocking," said Jacky, 52, who lives in the Wong Tai Sin district with his elderly parents. "I don't remember floods ever being this bad in our district." "The bottom floor of the mall is completely flooded, the water level is higher than the storefronts... it's turned our day into chaos," he added. Authorities issued flash flood warnings, with emergency services conducting rescue operations in parts of the territory. "Residents living in close proximity to rivers should stay alert to weather conditions and should consider evacuation" if their homes are flooded, the observatory said. It also warned of potential landslips, telling motorists to "keep away from steep slopes or retaining walls". Hong Kong's stock exchange cancelled all trading sessions on Friday. 'Once in a century' Hong Kong Chief Secretary Eric Chan described the deluge as "a once-in-a-century heavy rainstorm", adding that extreme conditions would continue until midnight local time (1600 GMT). "It's like putting four bathtubs of water into one bathtub... it will spill," Chan said at a press conference, when asked if the government had done enough to prevent flooding. The Hong Kong Observatory said it recorded more than 600 millimeters of rainfall at its headquarters over 24 hours -- roughly a quarter of the city's annual average. Earlier in the day, taxis struggled through flooded roads as commuters attempted to make their way to work, with some cars stranded in the deluge. "It felt like the whole neighborhood was isolated by the floodwater. One of the underground car parks is totally under water," Olivia Lam, who lives on the eastern side of Hong Kong Island, told AFP. "The water was almost waist-deep outside my building, and that's not the worst (case) in the neighborhood." An AFP reporter saw boulders and mud from a landslide block off a two-lane road in the Shau Kei Wan district, with mud also spilling over into a nearby basketball court. Residents of a public housing block just 30 meters from the landslide lined up with buckets to collect fresh water after the building's supply was disrupted. Roads were also flooded on the island of Lantau, where rivers swelled over their banks. Southern China was hit the previous weekend by two typhoons in quick succession -- Saola and Haikui -- though Hong Kong avoided a feared direct hit. Tens of millions of people in the densely populated coastal areas of southern China had sheltered indoors ahead of those storms. Hong Kong's weather observatory said the latest torrential rain was brought by the "trough of low pressure associated with (the) remnant of Haikui". Authorities suspended schools and cargo clearance services on the city's border with Shenzhen were paused. The border disruption came hours after Hong Kong authorities announced that Shenzhen was preparing to discharge water from its reservoir, which they said could lead to flooding in northern parts of the city. Hong Kong's subway operator said there was a service disruption on one of its lines after a station in the Wong Tai Sin district was flooded. A handful of other stations were also affected by the rain. Footage posted on social media showed a subway train not stopping at Wong Tai Sin station, which had floodwater on its platform. The flooding could cost Hong Kong at least $100 million, according to a Bloomberg Intelligence estimate, compared to $470 million in damage when the city was hit by typhoon Mangkhut in 2018. The post Hong Kong flooded by heaviest rainfall in 140 years appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Davao de Oro flood victims receive aid from Bong Go
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go’s team extended assistance to residents recovering from recent flooding in Pantukan, Davao de Oro on Wednesday, 30 August. In a video message, Go acknowledged local officials, including Governor Dodot Gonzaga, Vice Governor Tyron Uy, and Mayor Leonel Ceniza, for their prompt response to the needs of the affected families. Go's team distributed masks, shirts, and vitamins to 649 flood victims present at Barangay Napnapan covered court. They also gave away shoes, mobile phones, watches, and balls for basketball and volleyball. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) also extended financial assistance through the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation program. Congressman Ruwel Gonzaga, Board Member Ruwina Gonzaga, and former governor Arturo Uy were present during the event. “Alam ko pong mahirap ang panahon ngayon pero magtiwala lang ho kayo sa gobyerno. Kayo po ang nagbibigay ng lakas sa amin upang makapagserbisyo pa po sa abot ng aming makakaya para malampasan natin ang krisis at sana po’y makabalik na tayo sa ating normal na pamumuhay,” said Go. Go also stressed the urgent need for a comprehensive and coordinated disaster management approach. He highlighted the importance of Senate Bill No. 188, which proposes the establishment of the Department of Disaster Resilience (DDR). SBN 188 aims to consolidate all disaster-related agencies and functions into a single entity to streamline efforts and enhance disaster response efficiency. By elevating DDR to a Cabinet secretary-level department, the government can better allocate resources, develop improved disaster risk reduction strategies, and promptly aid affected communities, especially those from vulnerable sectors, cited Go. “Dapat na may nakatutok talaga na may awtoridad at malinaw na mandato. Hindi na puwedeng laging task force na lang dahil temporary lang ito at nawawala ang continuity kapag nagpalit na ng administrasyon. Mahirap din kung mananatiling coordinating council lang ang mamamahala sa ganitong sitwasyon dahil sa kakulangan ng kapangyarihan nito,” Go earlier explained. “Dapat ay departamento sana na may Cabinet-level na kalihim na in-charge para may kapangyarihan at kakayahang i-mobilize ang buong gobyerno kapag kinakailangan. Magkakaroon siya ng personalidad na diretsong isasangguni sa ibang departamento ang pangangailangan ng mga taong apektado ng krisis,” he added. As chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, Go took the opportunity to emphasize the importance of prioritizing health for the residents. He encouraged them to avail of medical assistance through the Malasakit Centers, conveniently located at Davao de Oro Provincial Hospital branches in Laak, Montevista, Maragusan, and Pantukan, as well as the Davao Regional Medical Center in nearby Tagum City. Initiated by Go in 2018, the Malasakit Centers serve as one-stop shops, bringing together multiple government agencies such as DSWD, Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, to ensure medical assistance programs are accessible by indigent Filipinos. Go is the principal author and sponsor of Republic Act No. 11463, commonly known as the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019. The program has demonstrated its effectiveness nationwide, benefiting over seven million Filipinos, as reported by DOH. Go also highlighted the role of Super Health Centers in making quality healthcare services accessible to all Filipinos, especially those living in remote and underserved areas. Go also stressed that no Filipino should be left behind when it comes to receiving proper medical attention and treatment. In 2022, the Super Health Centers in Davao de Oro commenced construction in Montevista, Nabunturan, and Mawab. This year, there will be two centers in the town, and one each in Monkayo and Compostela. “Ang kagandahan nito early detection at magagamit ito sa pagkokonsulta and it will help decongest the hospital dahil pwede na pong gamutin dito. At ilalagay po ito sa mga strategic areas. Ilalagay nila sa isang barangay kung saan po’y makaka-access ‘yung mga kababayan natin, hindi na nila kailangan pang magbiyahe pa sa Poblacion, hindi na nila kailangang magbiyahe pa sa provincial hospital. Pwede na pong gamutin dito, early detection mas maganda po ‘yon para hindi na lumala ang sakit ng mga pasyente,” Go said. He also underscored the importance of bringing specialized medical services closer to communities by establishing dedicated specialty centers in regional hospitals under the DOH. Go is the principal sponsor and one of the authors of RA 11959 or the Regional Specialty Centers Act. The newly enacted law includes provisions for the establishment of specialty centers within existing government-controlled corporations or specialty hospitals. It also outlines the specific service capabilities that DOH will implement in regional hospitals. Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, has actively supported various infrastructure projects in Davao de Oro. His contributions include the construction of a multipurpose building in Compostela; construction of the Monkayo, Compostela Valley-Veruela Road; and improvement of the public market in Monkayo. Other major initiatives he supported include the construction of the Nabunturan-Maco and Nabunturan-Laak roads; the installation of street lights in Nabunturan; the rehabilitation of the local roads and bridges in New Bataan; and the concreting of the local access road in Pantukan. The post Davao de Oro flood victims receive aid from Bong Go appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bring public health services closer
“Health is the greatest of human blessings,” according to Hippocrates, father of Modern Medicine. That is why we continue to make significant strides in improving our health system. The latest of which is the signing into law of the Regional Specialty Centers Act. As the principal sponsor and one of the authors of this measure, I am grateful to President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., for approving and prioritizing this legislation which will help bring specialized medical care closer to Filipinos in various regions, and hopefully to the most vulnerable groups in grassroots communities. As we aim to make public health more accessible, we must continue such efforts to ensure all Filipinos get the healthcare they deserve. In line with this, the Malasakit Centers we initiated in 2018 have already provided financial medical assistance to more than seven million patients so far. There are 158 Malasakit centers established all over the country through the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which I principally authored and sponsored in the Senate. I have also continuously pushed for the establishment of Super Health Centers, which are medium versions of a polyclinic and improved versions of the rural health unit, to make healthcare more accessible to Filipinos even in remote areas. These centers, funded with the help of my fellow legislators and primarily implemented by the Department of Health, shall provide primary health care services in communities that also include consultation, diagnosis, and early detection of diseases. As chair of the Senate Health Committee, I must emphasize the need to bring public health services closer to the people who need them the most. The enactment of the Regional Specialty Centers Act, along with the continuing operations of Malasakit Centers and the establishment of more Super Health Centers nationwide will hopefully bridge this gap and further promote the health and well-being of Filipinos no matter where they are in the country. As a legislator and public servant, I will continue to help improve public service delivery at the grassroots to the best of my capacity so that no Filipino is neglected when it comes to availing government services they need. That is why aside from the health initiatives mentioned above, I also continue to visit communities to deliver assistance, listen to their concerns, and provide solutions to their daily struggles. We were in Laguna on August 25 to inspect the Siniloan Sports Complex which was funded through our efforts as part of our goal as chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports to promote grassroots sports development and divert our youth from harmful vices like illegal drugs. We then inspected the Isolation Facility of the Infirmary Hospital which we supported during the Duterte administration. We also led the distribution of aid to 500 impoverished residents of Siniloan together with Vice Governor Karen Agapay, Mayor Patrick Go, Vice Mayor Carla Valderrama, and other local officials. Last weekend, I also joined fellow officials and basketball enthusiasts alike in supporting Gilas Pilipinas during the 2023 FIBA World Cup. I commend everyone who took part in ensuring the successful hosting of the FIBA World Cup here in the Philippines. We were invited as a guest speaker on 24 August at the Gender and Development Activity organized by the Provincial Council of Occidental Mindoro. We support these kinds of discussions that aim to promote equal and gender-sensitive leadership. On 23 August, I received the prestigious Apostle Arsenio Ferriol Award of Excellence for Public Service and Governance. I want to express my sincere gratitude to the Pentecostal Missionary Church of Christ (4th Watch) for this very prestigious recognition. With or without an award, I will continue my mission to serve fellow Filipinos, knowing very well that service to the people is service to God. Aside from the awarding ceremony, I also joined them yesterday for their 50th Golden Church Anniversary celebration in New Clark City, Tarlac. I also visited Navotas City on 22 August, together with Mayor John Rey Tiangco and Vice Mayor Tito Sanchez to help 1,000 senior citizens, PWDs, and indigents. We also provided additional support to 1,328 recovering fire victims who were given aid from the National Housing Authority to buy housing materials through their Emergency Housing Assistance Program that we initiated before and continue to support its implementation now. We were also instrumental in the construction of nine public school buildings in Navotas City, some of which we were able to inspect during our visit. My office also continues to assist Filipinos affected by calamities. Among those assisted were typhoon victims in various towns in Cagayan — 500 in Gonzaga; 500 residents in Aparri; 500 in Allacapan; 500 in Pamplona; 500 in Ballesteros; and 500 more in Caoayan, Ilocos Sur. More support was also provided for 35 indigents from different towns of Cotabato Province plus 110 sectoral members in Libungan town; three fire victims of Brgy. Peñaplata in Samal Island; 1,000 residents of Sibalom and almost 250 in Tobias Fornier in Antique; 1,000 beneficiaries in Polomolok, South Cotabato; 66 residents of Malolos Bulacan; 31 residents of General Tinio and 140 more in Gapan, Nueva Ecija. We also extended livelihood support to 14 indigents in Cauayan, Negros Occidental; three farmers in San Lorenzo, Guimaras; and 52 residents of Brgy. Tisa, Cebu City who were previously victims of a fire incident. They were also provided aid through DTI’s Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginhawa (PPG) program, which I pushed for before and continue to support now to boost the livelihood of those affected by various crises. Furthermore, I am also thankful to the President for signing the following into law: Republic Act No. 11961, which I co-authored, amending the National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009, and mandates the creation of a Philippine Registry of Heritage; RA 11958, which I co-authored, that amends RA 6948 to rationalize the disability pension provided to military veterans; and the One Town, One Product Philippines Program, which I authored and co-sponsored, to support the growth of the country’s micro, small, and medium enterprises. While we have accomplished a lot in the past few days in helping those in need and pushing for policies that would uplift the lives of fellow Filipinos, our work must not stop as long as there are more of our kababayans who rely on us for support. As public servants, let us continue to bring the government and its services closer to the people while working together so that no one is left behind toward recovery and progress. The post Bring public health services closer appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go assists various sectoral groups in North Cotabato
The Office of Senator Christopher “Bong” Go provided assistance to disadvantaged residents of Libungan, North Cotabato on Thursday, 24 August, as part of the senator’s continuing efforts to ensure Filipino families get the support they need from the government. “Nandirito ngayon ang aking opisina para makatulong, makabigay ng mga solusyon sa kanilang mga problema, makatulong po sa mga pasyente lalung-lalo na po ‘yung mga mahihirap nating mga kababayan, at makapag-iwan po ng kaunting ngiti sa panahon ng kanilang pagdadalamhati,” Go said through a video message. Go’s team held the activity at the University of Southern Mindanao Extension in Libungan where they assisted 110 struggling residents. The senator’s staff distributed shirts, vitamins, masks, and snacks to the residents, and gave away balls for basketball and volleyball to select recipients. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) also extended financial assistance to each individual. Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, emphasized the significance of Malasakit Centers in delivering healthcare services to people across the country. These centers serve as one-stop shops where various government agencies collaborate and offer a streamlined and convenient approach for individuals to access medical assistance programs. In a bid to alleviate the burden of struggling individuals and families, and improve their access to essential healthcare services, Go initiated the Malasakit Centers in 2018. It was institutionalized in 2019 through Republic Act No. 11463 which Go principally authored and sponsored in the Senate. Since then, the program has helped more than seven million indigent patients, according to the Department of Health (DOH). “Mayroon na po tayong 158 na Malasakit Center sa buong Pilipinas na laging handang tumulong sa ating mga kababayan. Meron po kayong Malasakit Center sa Cotabato Provincial Hospital dyan sa Kidapawan City. Ang Malasakit Center po batas na ‘yan na isinulong ko noon, pinirmahan ni dating pangulong Rodrigo Duterte. One stop shop po ‘yan, nasa loob na po ng hospital ang apat na ahensya ng gobyerno – PhiliHealth, PCSO, DOH, DSWD. Tutulungan po kayo, para po ‘yan sa mga poor and indigent patients,” Go explained. Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, has supported the construction of various bridges in Alamada, Arakan, Kabacan, Makilala, Pikit, and Tulunan; concreting of farm-to-market roads in Alamada, Banisilan, Libungan, Makilala, Midsayap, and President Roxas; construction of multi-purpose buildings in Kidapawan City, Arakan, Pigcawayan, and Makilala; construction of drainage canals in Kabacan and Pikit; construction of public market buildings in Arakan and Pigcawayan; construction of a slaughterhouse in Arakan; construction of Liga Office in Makilala; and construction of a perimeter fence for the City Government Complex in Kidapawan City. Additionally, he has supported road concreting in Kidapawan City, Banisilan, President Roxas, and Midsayap; rehabilitation and improvement of the Pikit Main Drainage Canal in Pikit; and construction of potable water system facilities in Tulunan. “Minsan lang tayo dadaan sa mundong ito. Kung ano pong kabutihan o tulong na pwede nating gawin sa ating kapwa ay gawin na po natin ngayon dahil hindi na po tayo babalik sa mundong ito. Iyan po ang totoo," said Go. "Ako po ang inyong Senador Kuya Bong Go, kasama ng mga lingkod bayan na narito, patuloy po ako na magseserbisyo sa inyong lahat.” Go reminded. The post Bong Go assists various sectoral groups in North Cotabato appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go continues efforts to improve public service delivery
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go remains committed to supporting economic recovery and bolstering the healthcare system in various communities. Being an adopted son of Zambales, he continues to help improve public service delivery in the province. In a speech during his visit to Olongapo City, Zambales, on Saturday, 19 August, Go reiterated his dedication to providing immediate aid to communities in need especially the poor. “Huwag po kayong magpasalamat sa akin. Parati naming naririnig ‘salamat Senator Bong Go, salamat (dating) pangulong (Rodrigo) Duterte sa mga tulong.' Sa totoo lang po, kami po ang dapat magpasalamat sa inyo dahil kami po’y mga probinsyano na binigyan n’yo po ng pagkakataon na makapagserbisyo po sa inyo. Maraming salamat po sa inyong lahat,” Go said. “Hinding-hindi ko po sasayangin ‘yung pagkakataong ibinigay ninyo sa akin, magtatrabaho po ako para sa Pilipino. Wala po akong piling oras, Lunes hanggang Linggo, umaga hanggang gabi magtatrabaho po ako para sa Pilipino sa abot ng aking makakaya,” he added. Go and his team distributed grocery packs, vitamins, masks, and snacks to 2,000 struggling residents, composed of persons with disabilities, solo parents, and transport workers, at the Rizal Triangle Multipurpose Center. The senator likewise gave away bicycles, shoes, mobile phones, watches, shirts, and basketball and volleyball balls. Meanwhile, financial support was also extended by the DSWD to assessed beneficiaries. The relief operation was in partnership with the Olongapo City local government, in coordination with Congressman Jay Khonghun and Mayor Rolen Paulino, Jr. “Ang tawag po sa kanya ay Mr. Malasakit. Alam niyo kung bakit? Kasi po yung puso niya (ay may malasakit), malapit sa tao si Senator Bong Go. At maliban po diyan, siya ang nagsulong ng mga Malasakit Centers… At gusto ko lang din ipaalam sa inyo na si Senator Bong Go po ay matagal na niya akong tinutulungan upang magkaroon tayo ng Malasakit Center dito sa hospital natin,” Paulino said in his speech, referring to ongoing efforts to establish a Malasakit Center in Olongapo in coordination with DOH. “Thank you very much po. Napakalaking tulong po ng ginagawa niyo sa amin… Siya po yung nagiging susi para marami pa tayong matulungan. Ang totoo po diyan, ang tinutulungan niya po ay hindi lang Olongapo, buong Zambales ang natutulungan ninyo,” Mayor Paulino continued. To further help alleviate the burden of poor and indigent patients, Go maintained his support for the continued operations of Malasakit Centers nationwide, including the one at President Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Hospital in Iba town. Initiated in 2018 and institutionalized under Republic Act No. 11463, which was principally authored and sponsored by Go in 2019, these centers serve as a vital bridge between the government and the people, offering streamlined access to medical assistance programs from concerned 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). Currently, there are 158 Malasakit Centers nationwide and, according to DOH, these centers have helped more than seven million Filipinos nationwide. “Ang Malasakit Center po is a one stop shop. Nasa loob na po ng ospital ang apat na ahensya ng gobyerno – PhilHealth, PCSO, DOH, DSWD na handang tumulong sa ating mga kababayan. ‘Yan po ang Malasakit Center, batas ‘yan na isinulong ko noon, pinirmahan ni dating Pangulong Duterte. One stop shop po ‘yan, lapitan n’yo lang po, para po ‘yan sa poor and indigent patients,” said Go in an interview after the event. Go's vision for a stronger healthcare sector continues through his advocacy for the establishment of more Super Health Centers (SHCs). Recognizing the importance of accessible healthcare services, especially after experiencing a global health crisis, Go has championed the cause of establishing these centers to provide primary care, early detection of diseases, and needed medical consultations to a broader range of citizens. Go cited that necessary funds have been allocated last year for DOH to construct SHCs in Iba, Botolan, and Castillejos, while another center will be established in Castillejos under the 2023 budget. The SHCs are medium versions of polyclinics and are bigger than rural health units, which offer basic services, such as database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, 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 center, and telemedicine where remote diagnosis and treatment of patients will be done. “Ang ikinaganda po nito, (pwede na) diyan na po magpapakonsulta. It will help decongest the hospital. Importante ang early detection ng sakit para hindi na lumala at hindi na kailangan dalahin sa ospital. Magpakonsulta po kayo sa Super Health Center para mabigyan kayo agad ng primary care,” Go encouraged. Through Resolution No. 205 dated 8 August 2022, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Zambales pronounced Go as its adopted son, noting that the senator has "embodied the spirit of good governance and public service" by exerting great efforts to help the whole province. To ensure the progress of the city, Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, supported the road rehabilitation along Elicano Street East Bajac-Bajac and the improvement of drainage canals in Barangay Barretto. On the same day, Go was in Subic where he was the guest speaker during the commencement exercise of Kolehiyo ng Subic, Class Matalaghay 2023. The post Bong Go continues efforts to improve public service delivery appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go boosts fire victims’ recovery in Cebu City
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go has remained steadfast in his dedication to assisting disaster victims as shown by his team’s relief operations on Monday, 14 August, to communities affected by fires in Cebu City. Go’s team, in coordination with Mayor Mike Rama, Vice Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia, and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), assisted 103 recovering fire victims gathered at the Atillo Gymnasium in Barangay Punta Princesa. DTI provided livelihood assistance through its Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginhawa (PPG) program which Go pushed for during the Duterte administration and continues to support its implementation in order to boost livelihood recovery of those affected by various crises. In addition to the livelihood support, Go’s team provided shirts and masks to all beneficiaries, and a pair of shoes, a watch, a cellular phone, and balls for basketball to select recipients. “Sa panahon ng kahirapan at pagsubok dulot ng iba't-ibang sakuna, nais namin sa inyo'y magbigay ng pag-asa at tulong na magbibigay daan sa inyong mga pangarap. Ang programa na ito ay hindi lamang simpleng tulong kundi isang oportunidad upang makabangon at makamtan ang mas magandang kinabukasan,” stressed Go. Go underscored the crucial role of DTI’s PPG program in providing opportunities for sustainable income generation and the agency’s dedication to assisting affected communities in their journey toward recovery and rebuilding their lives. “Palaguin niyo ang inyong negosyo. Kapag lumago ang inyong negosyo, dalhin niyo po ang mga kita sa inyong mga pamilya... mas masarap sa pakiramdam kapag pinagpawisan at pinaghirapan niyo po ang inyong pagnenegosyo,” he added. In a video message, Go highlighted his other efforts to enhance disaster preparedness, response, and recovery strategies on a broader scale. He also asked for support for the passage of Senate Bill No. 188, which aims to establish the Department of Disaster Resilience (DDR). The proposed legislation envisions a new government department led by a cabinet secretary, focusing on comprehensive approaches to strengthen disaster preparedness across the country. The DDR's core areas of concentration include disaster risk reduction, disaster preparedness, response and recovery, and the advancement of resilience. “Mayro’n rin po ako nai-file na Department of Disaster Resilience, ito pong departamento na ito, a cabinet-secretary level na siya po ang makikipag-coordinate bago pa dumating ‘yung bagyo at ilikas po ang mga kababayan natin sa ligtas na lugar at preposition of goods,” Go explained. “Part rin po ito ng trabaho nila ang disaster-related tulad ng sunog. Kapag may lindol, sunog, bagyo at itong pagputok ng bulkan, ilikas na kaagad sa mga ligtas na lugar. Iyan po ang Department of Disaster Resilience at restoration of normalcy kaagad,” he added. As chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, Go initiated the Malasakit Centers program in 2018 in Cebu City after he personally witnessed the struggles of financially incapacitated Filipinos in getting medical assistance from the government. It was later institutionalized under Republic Act No. 11463, which he principally sponsored and authored. To date, there are 158 Malasakit Centers, including those at Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center (VSMMC), Cebu City Medical Center, and St. Anthony Mother & Child Hospital, that have helped over seven million Filipinos, according to the Department of Health (DOH). Other Malasakit Centers in the province are located at Cebu Provincial Hospital in Carcar City, Lapu-Lapu City District Hospital, Eversley Childs Sanitarium and General Hospital in Mandaue City, and Talisay District Hospital in Talisay City. Moreover, Go said DOH has identified areas to construct Super Health Centers (SHCs) in the province. SHCs were funded to be established in the cities of Bogo, Danao, Lapu-Lapu, and Mandaue; and in the towns of Borbon, Cordova, Moalboal, Samboan, and San Francisco in 2022. This year, more Super Health Centers were funded in the cities of Carcar, Cebu, Talisay, and Toledo; and in the towns of Carmen, Consolacion, Liloan, Medellin, and San Nicolas. An additional SHC will also be established in Danao City. “Ang isang malaking bagay dito ay ang early detection kung may sakit ang isang pasyente. Dahil nasa kanilang komunidad ang SHC, madali na para sa kanya ang magpakonsulta. At kung malalaman agad ang sakit ng isang pasyente, mabibigyan siya ng primary care, malalapatan ng lunas, at lalaki ang tsansa na maka-recover siya sa kanyang sakit,” he explained. SHCs offer 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 center; and telemedicine. Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, supported the funding of various projects in the province, including the construction of multipurpose buildings in Barili, Cordova, Ginatilan, Pilar, Tabogon, and Talisay City; improvement of existing roads in Alcantara, Alcoy, Alegria, Asturias, Balamban, Boljoon, Borbon, Carmen, Madrilejos, Malabuyoc, Minglanilla, Moalboal, Pinamungajan, Sibonga, Sogod, Tabogon, Tabuelan, Carcar City and Naga City; improvement of flood mitigation structures in Catmon and Tuburan; installation of street lights in Asturias, Compostela, and Daanbantayan; and acquisition of ambulance units for Madridejos and Naga City. The post Bong Go boosts fire victims’ recovery in Cebu City appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go visits ‘egg basket of the Philippines’ to conduct relief ops
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go emphasized the paramount significance of stronger government interventions for supporting impoverished Filipinos adversely affected by various crises as he personally led a relief activity for struggling Batangueños in San Jose town on Thursday, 17 August. In 2022, former president Rodrigo Duterte approved a law declaring San Jose town in Batangas as the country's "egg basket” through Republic Act No. 11707, which recognizes the local and national "economic significance" of San Jose's egg industry. Recognizing the urgent need for support, Go for his part has tirelessly championed the cause of the most vulnerable members of society, ensuring that essential government aid reaches those who need it the most. In partnership with the local government of San Jose, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Go assisted 1,558 fellow Batanguenos at the Vanolato Realty basketball court. Go and his team provided grocery packs, masks, vitamins, and meals to each beneficiary. He likewise gave away bicycles, shoes, mobile phones, watches, shirts, and balls for basketball and volleyball to select recipients. A team from the DSWD extended financial assistance to 1,000 qualified Batangueños through its Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program, while DOLE provided livelihood support to 558 individuals through its Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program. “Mga kababayan ko nandirito po kami ngayong araw na ito (at) may dala lang po kaming kaunting tulong. Mayroon po akong dala mula sa aking opisina. (Bukod pa rito,) ang DSWD po mayroong programa na AICS. Kayo po ang napili na bibigyan po na mga beneficiaries ngayong araw na ito… Iba naman po ang TUPAD ng DOLE. Ito pong programang ito pansamantalang trabaho po ito,” Go said. “Ako po bilang senador ay nagsulong nito para maging benepisyaryo kayo ng mga programang ‘yan sa pakikipag-ugnayan po kay Mayor Ben Patron. Suportado ko po ang mga programa ng gobyerno tulad nito na nakakatulong sa mga mahihirap,” shared Go. Go, who is an adopted son of CALABARZON with familial roots in Batangas and Davao, likewise praised the collective efforts of all local officials, including Mayor Valentino “Ben” Patron and Vice Mayor Noel Virtucio. Barangay Ginebra San Miguel team captain Lewis Alfred "LA" Tenorio, a Batangueño, was also present during the visit. “Minsan ako ay pumunta sa kanyang opisina para hingan kayo ng tulong. Ang sagot niya sa akin, at napagalitan pa ako dahil sabi, Mayor, kahit hindi ka pumunta dito, ako ay Batangueño at bilang Batangueño, una sa puso ko ang mga taga-San Jose,” referring to Go, Mayor Patron recalled during his speech to the beneficiaries. Meanwhile, the senator, who chairs the Committee on Health and Demography in the Senate, reiterated his commitment to improving healthcare accessibility and medical services for the poor and reminded the public to take advantage of the services offered in Malasakit Centers. 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 piece of legislation he principally sponsored and authored in the Senate. As attested by the Department of Health (DOH), the program has already aided over seven million patients nationwide with 158 existing Malasakit Centers all around the country. The Malasakit Centers in the province are located at the Batangas Medical Center in Batangas City and at Batangas Provincial Hospital in Lemery. In addition to his commitment to the Malasakit Center program, Go has conveyed his support to establish more Super Health Centers (SHCs) throughout the country. Under the 2022 national budget, SHCs in Batangas were funded in Ibaan, San Pascual, Agoncillo, Calatagan, Lipa City, Malvar, and Taysan. In 2023, more centers were identified to be established in the towns of San Juan, Tingloy, Lian, and San Jose. In addition, two more SHCs were funded in Lipa City. The SHC is an improved version of a rural health center and 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, through which remote diagnosis and treatment of patients are made possible. “Sa kakaikot ko po sa buong Pilipinas, marami pong lugar walang health facilities. Yung mga buntis nanganganak sa tricycle (o kaya) sa jeepney dahil napakalayo po ng ospital. Ngayon magkakaroon na ng Super Health Center at pwede po itong i-expand ni Mayor. Kaya yung mga buntis pwede nang manganak dyan,” Go cited. “Kapag meron na pong Super Health Center dito sa lugar ninyo, dyan na po pwede magpakonsulta, importante ang early detection ng diseases para hindi lumala ang sakit, at makakuha kayo ng primary care. This will help decongest the hospitals dahil dyan na po pwede na magpagamot. Malaking tulong po nun,” he continued. To help with the economic recovery of the town, Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, supported the construction of multipurpose buildings, road improvements, rehabilitation of drainage facilities and water systems, and a street lighting project. On the same day, Go attended the blessing and opening of the Malaquing Tubig Bridge and inspected the ongoing road construction in Barangay Palanca going to Barangay Natunuan. As Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, Go was instrumental in securing funding for these projects. The post Bong Go visits ‘egg basket of the Philippines’ to conduct relief ops appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go inspects Super Health Center in Tagbilaran, Bohol
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go emphasized the significance of health facilities in the country as he personally inspected the Super Health Center being constructed in Tagbilaran City, Bohol on Monday, July 17. In his speech, Go shared that the government intends to establish more than 600 Super Health Centers across the nation. He added that such centers are poised to play a crucial role in addressing the nation's healthcare needs, ensuring comprehensive medical care and strengthening the country's healthcare system. “Itong Super Health Center marami rin ang itatayo sa buong Pilipinas, higit 600 ang itatayo (sa buong Pilipinas) at 13 sa Bohol ang itatayo na Super Health Center. Ang Super Health Center is a medium type of a polyclinic. Mas maliit sa hospital, mas malaki po sa mga Rural Health Unit. Pwede po diyan ‘yung birthing, panganganak, dental, laboratory, x-ray at pwede po itong i-expand,” he explained. Accessibility is a key pillar of the Super Health Center initiative, Go underscored. He likewise emphasized the importance of bringing healthcare services closer to the people, especially in areas where access to quality medical care remains a challenge. By establishing Super Health Centers throughout the country, the government aims to ensure that every Filipino, regardless of their location, can avail themselves of essential healthcare services without the burden of long-distance travel or prohibitive costs, the senator added. The Super Health Center is a medium version of a polyclinic yet an improved version of the rural health unit. The services available in the center include 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 center; and telemedicine, which makes remote diagnosis and treatment of patients possible. In Bohol, aside from the one in Tagbilaran City, funds have been allocated to construct Super Health Centers in Buenavista, Candijay, Dauis, Sagbayan, Talibon, Antequera, Balilihan, Bien Unido, Carmen, Panglao and Ubay — the last one’s groundbreaking was attended by Go last April. During the inspection, Go, who is an adopted son of the city, was accompanied by Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane Yap, Vice Mayor Adam Jala, and former mayor Baba Yap. Cortes Mayor Iven Lim and Dauis Vice Mayor Miriam Sumaylo were also in attendance. As Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and principal author and sponsor of the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, Go also continues to monitor the operations of Malasakit Centers nationwide to ensure efficient provision of medical assistance particularly to poor and indigent patients. Acknowledging the hesitancy of many Filipinos to get medical care due to financial barriers, Go initiated the Malasakit Centers program in 2018. It was later institutionalized under the Republic Act No. 11463 or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019. The Act brings together all relevant agencies, including the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Health, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, under one roof to reduce the hospital expenses of the patients by covering services and other fees. “Special ang araw ngayon dahil nandito at sinamahan tayo ng numero uno na senador sa lugar ng Tagbilaran (City), walang iba (kundi si) Senador Bong Go! A very (good) example kung gaano kabilis at aksyon agad ng atin senador, last week tumawag kami ni Baba Yap sa kanya (kasi) may isang pasyente sa San Isidro na nangangailangan ng kidney transplant. Ngayon ang kanyang operasyon at (tumulong si) Senador Bong Go through the Malasakit Center,” cited Mayor Yap. In the city, there is a Malasakit Center at Governor Celestino Gallares Memorial Medical Center (GCGMH), which he also checked the operations on the same day. There is also one at Don Emilio Del Valle Memorial Hospital in Ubay. Go, as principal sponsor in the Senate, was also instrumental in the passage of Republic Act No. 11883 which converts GCGMH to Governor Celestino Gallares Multi-Specialty Medical Complex. On the same day, Go also visited several infrastructure projects that he earlier supported. These projects included the ongoing construction of the Governor Celestino Gallares Multispecialty Medical Complex, as well as the Cortes Municipal Park and Disaster Risk Reduction and Management building in Cortes. Additionally, he also attended the opening of the Inter-Barangay Basketball League in Cortes town and provided assistance to indigent athletes, coaches, referees, and barangay workers of the town. Lastly, he also attended the 73rd Commencement Exercise of Bohol Institute of Technology International College System. #### The post Bong Go inspects Super Health Center in Tagbilaran, Bohol appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go’s office assists conflict-affected residents in Libmanan, Camarines Sur
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go’s office extended assistance to conflict-affected and Geographically-Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas in Libmanan, Camarines Sur on Friday, 14 July. The initiative reflects Go’s continuing commitment to assist the most vulnerable communities in the country, particularly barangays where the distribution of government assistance is hampered due to their geographical locations and the existence of local conflicts. “Our goal is not just to address immediate needs, but also to create long-lasting impacts. We are extending our hand to the communities often neglected and forgotten due to their geographical location or internal conflicts. Everyone deserves equal access to government aid and support, regardless of where they live,” said Go. Go also reminded the residents about the importance of unity and cooperation in overcoming challenges. “In these times of crisis, it is paramount that we come together as one nation. Our strength lies in our unity and collective action,” he stated. During the activity held at Brgy. Villasocorro covered court, Go’s team distributed masks, vitamins, snacks and shirts to 108 beneficiaries. The team also provided several individuals with balls for basketball and volleyball. The Department of Social Welfare and Development also extended financial assistance to the beneficiaries in coordination with the 81st Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army. As chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health, Go reached out to individuals with medical issues. Through a video message, he urged them to visit the Malasakit Centers located at the Bicol Medical Center in Naga City and the Bicol Region General Hospital and Geriatric Medical Center in Cabusao. The Malasakit Centers program was initiated by Go in 2018 and was later institutionalized through the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which he principally authored and sponsored. The program aims to facilitate easy access to various medical assistance programs provided by DSWD, Department of Health, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. There are currently 158 Malasakit Centers operating nationwide, successfully aiding over seven million Filipinos, according to the DOH. Go also stressed the significance of the Super Health Centers, which he initiated, in bridging the healthcare gap especially in communities. Through the concerted efforts of fellow lawmakers, sufficient funding has been allocated for the construction of 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and additional 322 centers in 2023. The DOH, as the lead implementing agency, identifies strategic areas where these centers will be built. In Camarines Sur alone, 18 Super Health Centers have been funded for construction in 2022 and 2023. Super Health Centers are designed to provide basic health services, including database management, outpatient care, birthing facilities, isolation units, diagnostic services (such as laboratory tests, X-rays, and ultrasounds), pharmacies, and ambulatory surgical units. In addition, specialized services like eye, ear, nose, and throat care, oncology centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation centers, and telemedicine capabilities for remote diagnosis and treatment of patients will also be available. Go, in his capacity as vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, supported a range of projects aimed at improving infrastructure in the province, including the construction of the Mabolo-Almeda Bypass Road in Naga City. Go was also instrumental in the enhancement of the San Fernando Sports Complex in San Fernando town, improvement of the Bula and Nabua Section channel, and construction of the Lalud-Garchitorena Road, among others. On July 13, Go also provided assistance to poor transport sector workers in the town of Calabanga in the province. His office also provided assistance to poor families in Ragay and Libmanan, on 4 and 5 July, respectively. ### The post Bong Go’s office assists conflict-affected residents in Libmanan, Camarines Sur appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go’s team helps Pasig City indigents
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go’s outreach team spearheaded a relief activity on Wednesday, 12 July, for the struggling residents of Pasig City. In his video message, Go reiterated that he will continue to provide assistance to the most needy sector, considering the adverse effects of various crises faced by the poor. “Nandirito po ang aking staff ngayon sa Pasig City para makatulong at makaiwan ng kaunting ngiti sa inyo, mga kababayan ko. Alam n’yo masaya po ako ‘pag nakikita ko ‘yung mga kababayan nating masaya rin po ngayong araw na ito,” said Go. In coordination with Pasig City Councilor Syvel Asilo, Go’s team led the activity at Pinagbuhatan Multi-purpose Hall where they distributed masks, vitamins, snacks, and shirts to 300 indigents. They also gave away shoes and balls for basketball and volleyball to select recipients. Lastly, the Department of Social Welfare and Development extended financial assistance to each beneficiary. The senator, who chairs the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, urged residents to avail of aid from the Malasakit Centers as it provides convenient access to the government’s medical assistance programs. Go initiated the Malasakit Centers in 2018. It was later institutionalized under Republic Act No. 11463 in 2019, which Go principally sponsored and authored. Since then, the program has helped more than seven million particularly poor and indigent patients, according to the Department of Health. “Mayroon na po tayong 158 na Malasakit Center sa buong Pilipinas na laging handang tumulong sa ating mga kababayan. Ang Malasakit Center po batas na ‘yan na isinulong ko noon, pinirmahan ni dating pangulong Rodrigo Duterte. One stop shop po ‘yan, nasa loob na po ng hospital ang apat na ahensya ng gobyerno – PhilHealth, PCSO, DOH, DSWD. Tutulungan po kayo, para po ‘yan sa mga poor and indigent patients,” Go explained. “Lapitan n’yo lang po ang Malasakit Center sa inyong lugar. At mayroon po kayong Malasakit Center dito po sa Rizal Medical Center po. Para po iyan sa Pilipino, karapatan n’yo po ‘yan, lapitan n’yo lang po,” he added. As vice chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, Go continues to support the health sector of the city through several projects for the Rizal Medical Center, including its improvement, construction of a seven-story multi-specialty building, and the acquisition of medical equipment. “Minsan lang tayo dadaan sa mundong ito. Kung ano pong kabutihan o tulong na pwede nating gawin sa ating kapwa ay gawin na po natin ngayon dahil hindi na po tayo babalik sa mundong ito. Iyan po ang totoo,” Go said. “Ako po ang inyong Senador kuya Bong Go, kasama ng mga lingkod bayan na narito, patuloy po ako na magseserbisyo sa inyong lahat. Dahil ako po ay naniniwala na ang serbisyo sa tao ay serbisyo po ‘yan sa Diyos. Serbisyo ‘yan kay Allah,” he concluded. Last 23 May, Go also visited the city and provided assistance to more indigents. The post Bong Go’s team helps Pasig City indigents appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go inspects infra project, aids indigents in Cebu
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go visited Naga City, Cebu on Wednesday, 12 July where he inspected the seawall project and government vehicles that he had advocated funding for as vice chair of the Senate Committee on Finance. He also aided indigent residents of the city. Go has consistently championed the need to support local governments in their efforts to develop and implement infrastructure projects and improve public service delivery for their constituents. Accompanied by local officials, including Congresswoman Rhea Gullas, Governor Gwendolyn Garcia, and Naga City Mayor Valdemar M. Chiong, Go toured the seawall project site, inspected the acquired vehicles, including an ambulance unit and other multipurpose vehicles, and engaged in discussions regarding other opportunities to further help the community. Go also led a relief operation at Barangay Poblacion tennis court. In his address, the senator reiterated the importance of cooperation between national and local government units in pursuing progress and development. He emphasized that progress could only be achieved through a united and collaborative effort, with local governments playing a crucial role in identifying and implementing projects that address the specific needs of their communities. “Nandito ako para magbayad sa utang na loob sa inyo, sa inyong suporta sa akin. Huwag kayong magpasalamat sa amin. Kami ang dapat na magpasalamat sa inyo dahil binigyan n’yo kami ng pagkakataon na makapagserbisyo sa inyo. Mula sa puso ang aking pasasalamat sa inyong lahat. Maraming salamat talaga, salamat mga Bisaya,” said Go. “Tao lang rin kami na napapagod rin. Pero kapag nakikita namin kayong masaya nawawala ang aking pagod. Makatulong sa mga pasyente, makatulong sa mga kababayan nating mahihirap, makatulong sa mga proyekto na makakapag-unlad ng inyong syudad, at makapag-iwan ng kaunting ngiti sa panahon ng inyong pagdadalamhati. Masaya na rin ako ngayong araw na nakikita ko na nakangiti kayo,” he continued. Aside from the projects he inspected, Go also supported the construction of a slope protection structure in Brgy. Balirong, rehabilitation of a public market and several multipurpose buildings. On the same visit, Go helped around 2,000 struggling Cebuanos by providing grocery packs, vitamins, and masks. Meanwhile, select residents received shoes, shirts, mobile phones, watches, bicycles, and balls for basketball and volleyball. "Ilang beses ng pabalik balik dito sa atin probinsya (si Senator Bong Go) at ganun rin sa mga kalapit probinsya natin. (Talagang) pinapakita niya na hindi lang sa salita... Kung ano ang sasabihin nya gagawin nya. Yan si Senator Bong Go," Governor Garcia expressed. In line with his vision to provide a better healthcare system, Go, as chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, likewise highlighted the establishment of more Super Health Centers in the country, including the 19 centers that will be established in the province of Cebu. Super Health Centers offer 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 center; and telemedicine, which makes remote diagnosis and treatment of patients possible. Meanwhile, Go also encouraged those with health concerns and in need of medical assistance from the government to visit Malasakit Centers located at Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center (VSMMC), Cebu City Medical Center, and St. Anthony Mother & Child Hospital in Cebu City, Cebu Provincial Hospital in Carcar City, Lapu-Lapu City District Hospital, Eversley Childs Sanitarium and General Hospital in Mandaue City, and Talisay District Hospital in Talisay City. First established in Cebu in 2018, the Malasakit Center is a one-stop shop through which agencies such as DSWD, DOH, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office assist indigent patients by bringing their hospital bills to the lowest amount possible. On the same day, Go was in Carcar City where he attended the groundbreaking of the city’s Super Health Center, checked the operations of the Malasakit Center at Cebu Provincial Hospital, and provided assistance to more than a thousand indigents. See more photos here: The post Bong Go inspects infra project, aids indigents in Cebu appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go gives aid to Quezon City fire victims
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go highlighted on Monday, 10 July, the importance of strengthening fire prevention measures in communities and delivering prompt aid to the victims of a fire incident in Barangay Pasong Tamo, Quezon City, which affected 55 residents. Held at the barangay hall of Brgy. Pasong Tamo, his office distributed grocery packs, vitamins, masks, snacks and shirts to the affected households. They also gave away shoes, bags, and balls for basketball and volleyball to select beneficiaries. “Ang gamit naman po nabibili natin ‘yan. Ang damit, labhan lang natin ‘pag nadumihan, kung gusto nating bumili ng bagong pantalon, nabibili natin ‘yan. Ang pera po’y kikitain natin ‘yan. Subalit ‘yung perang kikitain ay hindi po nabibili ang buhay kaya mag-ingat tayo parati,” Go said in a video message. Meanwhile, the Department of Social Welfare and Development extended financial aid to the victims. On the same day, Go personally extended his assistance to yet another group of fire victims and impoverished residents in Brgy. Bagabas, Quezon City. As part of his efforts to bolster fire safety and prevention programs in the country, Go primarily authored and co-sponsored Republic Act No. 11589 or the Bureau of Fire Protection Modernization Act of 2021, to enhance the firefighting capability of the agency. Under the Act, the bureau is undergoing a ten-year modernization program, which includes acquiring new modern fire equipment, hiring additional personnel, and providing specialized training for firefighters, among others. Go, chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, also reminded the beneficiaries to look after their health and encouraged them to seek the services of any of the 11 Malasakit Centers in the city. Initiated by the senator in 2018, the Malasakit Centers program provides one-stop shops where indigent patients may get more convenient access to the medical assistance programs of DSWD, Department of Health, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. Go is also the principal author and sponsor of the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which institutionalized the program. In Quezon City, Malasakit Centers are located at the Lung Center of the Philippines, Novaliches District Hospital, Philippine Heart Center, Philippine Children’s Medical Center, East Avenue Medical Center, Veterans Memorial Medical Center, Philippine Orthopedic Center, National Children’s Hospital, Philippine National Police General Hospital and Quirino Memorial Medical Center. There are now 158 Malasakit Centers nationwide. Go was also instrumental in pushing for the establishment of Super Health Centers nationwide. Super Health Centers are designed to make basic health services, such as database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray, ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit, more accessible to Filipino patients. Other available services are eye, ear, nose, and throat service; oncology centers; physical therapy and rehabilitation center; and telemedicine, where remote diagnosis and treatment of patients will be done. Through the support of fellow lawmakers, 307 SHCs were funded in 2022 and 322 more in 2023. DOH has identified six locations for Super Health Centers in Quezon City. Likewise dedicated to help in the development of Quezon City, Go, as vice chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, supported the construction of several multipurpose buildings, flood control structures, and drainage systems in the city. He also supported the rehabilitation of the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center and VMMC road networks, road and drainage improvement works along the Quirino Highway and P. Dela Cruz Road, construction of an advanced cardiac catheterization laboratory and expansion of the new emergency room building at the EAMC, and construction of a five-story multipurpose building at Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo. The post Bong Go gives aid to Quezon City fire victims appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go helps struggling Bulakeños in Plaridel town
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, head of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, continues to promote better access to public health services through the Malasakit Centers program to ensure that more Filipinos, particularly the poor and indigent, get access to medical assistance they need. In a video message during his team’s relief activity in Plaridel, Bulacan, in coordination with Mayor Jocell Aimee Vistan, on Thursday, 6 July, Go encouraged those with health issues to visit Bulacan Medical Center in Malolos City or in Rogaciano M. Mercado Memorial Hospital in Sta. Maria or in Ospital ng Lungsod ng San Jose del Monte where there are Malasakit Centers that will assist them with their medical-related expenses. A brainchild of Go, the Malasakit Center first opened in Cebu in 2018 and was later institutionalized under Republic Act No. 11463, which the senator principally authored and sponsored. The Act mandates all Department of Health-run hospitals, and Philippine General Hospital in Manila City, to establish their own centers to provide convenient access to medical assistance programs offered by the government. Other public hospitals may also establish their own centers provided they meet a standard set of criteria and they can guarantee the sustainability of their operations. The program has so far assisted over seven million Filipinos since its inception in 2018, according to DOH. “Ang target po ng Malasakit Center ay bawasan ang inyong hospital billing to the lowest amount possible. 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 158 na Malasakit Centers sa buong Pilipinas na handang tumulong po sa inyo,” explained Go. “Pera naman ng taumbayan yan. Binabalik lang sa kanila sa pamamagitan ng mabilis at maayos na serbisyo. Kaya basta Pilipino ka, poor and indigent patient ka, qualified ka sa Malasakit Center. Lapitan niyo lang po ang Malasakit Center diyan po sa inyong lugar at tutulungan po kayo sa inyong billing,” he added. Go also highlighted that there will be 15 Super Health Centers in the province which will provide basic health services to Bulakeños. Super Health Centers are medium versions of polyclinics and are bigger than rural health units. The centers offer basic services such as database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, 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, which makes possible remote diagnosis and treatment of patients. Held at the municipal hall, Go’s team provided assistance to 49 struggling residents, such as masks, snacks, vitamins, and shirts. They likewise gave away balls for basketball and volleyball to select individuals. A selected beneficiary likewise received a new pair of shoes. More so, the Department of Social Welfare and Development then provided financial assistance to each beneficiary. To further improve the delivery of public service in the province, Go, who serves as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, supported several initiatives, such as the rehabilitation of the Bulacan State University Activity Center and the construction of a multipurpose building in Malolos City, construction of drainages, provision of medical equipment for local hospitals, improvement of the Pandi District Hospital, concreting of a farm-to-market road in San Ildefonso and many more. On 3 July, Go personally visited the town of Bulakan, where he assisted 1,000 more indigents and inspected the town’s Super Health Center. Simultaneously, Go’s team extended the same relief to more disadvantaged residents in Bocaue City. The post Bong Go helps struggling Bulakeños in Plaridel town appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go provides assistance to poor families in Manila
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go’s office, together with the Department of Social Welfare and Development, provided assistance to poor families in Barangay 107, District 1, Manila on Wednesday, 5 July. The relief operation, which was held at the barangay hall of Brgy. 107, assisted a total of 100 indigents. Go’s team distributed vitamins, masks, shirts, and snacks. Select beneficiaries also received shoes, and balls for basketball and volleyball. The DSWD also extended financial assistance to the residents. Go, who chairs the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, offered to help those in need of medical assistance. The senator highlighted the presence of five Malasakit Centers in the city, where they can avail of the government’s medical assistance programs. Republic Act No. 11463, also known as the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, was principally authored and sponsored by Go. It requires all hospitals administered and managed by the Department of Health nationwide, and the Philippine General Hospital in Manila City, to establish their own Malasakit Centers. Other public hospitals may also establish their own centers provided they meet a standard set of criteria and they can guarantee the sustainability of their operations. The program has so far assisted over seven million Filipinos since its inception in 2018, according to DOH. The Malasakit Centers are located at Tondo Medical Center, Philippine General Hospital, Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital, Jose R. Reyes Memorial Medical Center, and San Lazaro Hospital. In line with his efforts to bolster the health sector, Go mentioned that DOH has identified several barangays in the city where it will establish Super Health Centers. Through the collective efforts of fellow lawmakers, sufficient funds had been allocated for 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and 322 in 2023. DOH, the lead implementing agency, identifies the strategic areas where they will be constructed. Super Health Centers offer 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 center; and telemedicine, where remote diagnosis and treatment of patients will be done. Go, who is also Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, has supported several projects in the city including road improvements, construction of a multipurpose building, and improvements of public buildings. He also supported the acquisition of a multipurpose vehicle, rescue patrol, and an ambulance. “Hinding-hindi ko po sasayangin ‘yung pagkakataon na magserbisyo sa inyo. Magtatrabaho po ako sa Pilipino. Sanay po ako sa trabaho… iyon po ang pwede kong ialay sa inyo, ang aking kasipagan po sa pagtatrabaho. Kaya magtulungan lang po tayo para sa ikabubuti ng ating bansa,” Go reassured. The post Bong Go provides assistance to poor families in Manila appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»