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PUBG Mobile continues steady rise in Philippines
PUBG: Mobile has been a steady shooting game that Filipinos have been playing since its release back in 2018. Since then, the game has had Filipino-centric initiatives in 2022......»»
‘DepEd acting on senior high school voucher discrepancies’
The Department of Education is acting on supposed discrepancies in the voucher program under the Government Assistance to Students and Teachers in Private Education......»»
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 lauds Super Health Center groundbreaking in Biliran
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go commended the Department of Health and the local government of Biliran, including Biliran town Mayor Myra Cabrales and Congressman Gerry Boy Espina, for their successful groundbreaking of the Super Health Center in the province on Tuesday, 17 October. Go underscored the pivotal function that Super Health Centers can fulfill in alleviating the strain on hospitals, enabling the early detection of diseases, and delivering vital healthcare services like primary care and medical consultations to the local community. “Ano po itong Super Health Center? It’s a medium type of a polyclinic. Pwede po diyan ‘yung panganganak, dental, laboratory, x-ray, pagpapabakuna. Alam n’yo naisipan ko po ‘yang Super Health Center noong 2021. Sa kakaikot ko po ng buong Pilipinas, ‘yung mga may sakit anlayo ng byahe, yung mga buntis nanganganak na lang sa tricycle o sa jeepney dahil malalayo ang hospital. Ngayon po magkakaroon na kayo ng sarili ninyong health center. Pwede na po diyan ‘yung panganganak, pagkonsulta, at iba pa,” shared Go. “Malaking tulong po ito na ma-decongest ‘yung mga hospitals. Makakatulong rin sa early disease detection para maagapan ang sakit. Hindi na kailangang ilakbay pa ang pasyente sa ospital,” he added. Super Health Centers shall provide convenient access to basic healthcare delivery, offering a wide range of medical services to communities. These Super Health Centers provide services such as database management, outpatient care, birthing facilities, isolation units, diagnostic services (including laboratory, X-ray, and ultrasound), pharmacies, and ambulatory surgical units. Additional services include eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) care, oncology centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation centers, as well as telemedicine for remote diagnosis and treatment. “Sa ating pakikipagtulungan sa DOH, LGUs at mga kapwa nating mambabatas, magkakaroon po ng 307 Super Health Center sa year 2022 at 322 na Super Health Center sa year 2023 sa buong Pilipinas. Marami pa po ’yan sa buong Pilipinas, nakakalat po ‘yan sa mga strategic areas as identified by DOH,” highlighted Go. Apart from Biliran town, the senator also supported the construction of another Super Health Center in Naval in the same province. Furthermore, the senator also encouraged individuals with health concerns to make use of the medical assistance programs accessible at the Malasakit Center situated in Biliran Provincial Hospital. The Malasakit Centers serve as one-stop shops designed to assist particularly poor and indigent patients in minimizing their medical costs to the lowest feasible level through collaboration with various agencies offering medical assistance programs. This initiative was institutionalized under Republic Act No. 11463, a law principally authored and sponsored by Go in the Senate. Presently, there are 159 Malasakit Centers spread across the country, and they have collectively provided support to more than seven million Filipinos, as reported by the Department of Health (DOH). Moreover, echoing President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr.’s priority of bringing specialized medical services closer to other parts of the country, Go highlighted that he has principally sponsored and is one of the authors of the Regional Specialty Centers Act which was recently enacted into law. The law mandates the establishment of regional specialty centers within existing DOH regional hospitals. It stands as a testament to the commitment of the government to uplift the nation's health infrastructure and bring actual medical services closer to the Filipino people. “Ipagpatuloy natin na ilapit ang serbisyong medikal mula gobyerno sa ating mga kababayang mahihirap na walang ibang matakbuhan. The more we should support their health needs, the more na mag-invest po tayo sa ating healthcare system,” Go said. “Huwag po natin silang pahirapan. Marami po sa mga kababayan natin sa iba’t ibang sulok ng Pilipinas na wala silang sariling health facility. Kaya importante na mailapit natin ang serbisyong medikal mula gobyerno sa mga taong nangangailangan nito,” he stressed. As vice chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, Go aims to boost the development of the town. He extended his support for several projects, including road improvements in Barangay Villa Consuelo, and the construction of flood control structures in Brgys. Calumpang, Caraycaray, and Larrazabal, and the construction of multipurpose buildings in Brgys. Capinahan, Haguikhikan, Calumpang, and Larrazabal. The post Bong Go lauds Super Health Center groundbreaking in Biliran appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Super Health Center in Tanauan, Leyte breaks ground
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, is hopeful that more Filipinos, particularly those in far-flung areas, will be able to access basic health services through the establishment of more Super Health Centers nationwide. In a video message during the groundbreaking of a Super Health Center in Tanauan, Leyte on Thursday, 28 September, Go, who is an adopted son of the province, commended the Department of Health and the local government for the successful groundbreaking of the town's Super Health Center in Barangay Malaguicay. Super Health Centers are designed to focus on primary care, medical consultation, and early detection of diseases, further strengthening the healthcare sector in the country, especially in rural communities. He also stressed his commitment to bringing healthcare closer to the people, alleviating the burden of traveling long distances to receive basic health services. The groundbreaking was led by Leyte Governor Jericho "Icot" Petilla and Tanauan Mayor Gina Merilo, among others. “Ipagpatuloy natin na ilapit ang serbisyong medikal sa ating mga kababayang mahihirap na walang matakbuhan kung hindi ang mga gobyerno. Para sa mga mahihirap nating kababayan, napakaimportante po nito dahil iyan po ang kanilang lalapitan po talaga, itong mga government health facilities natin. The more we should support it, the more na mag-invest po tayo sa ating healthcare system,” Go said. “Ilapit po natin ang serbisyong nararapat para sa kanila. Huwag po natin silang pahirapan. Marami po sa mga kababayan natin sa iba’t ibang sulok ng Pilipinas na wala silang sariling health center. Kaya importante na mailapit natin ang serbisyong medikal mula gobyerno sa mga taong nangangailangan nito,” he stressed. Super Health Centers offer basic health services, including database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray, ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services in Super Health Centers are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service; oncology centers; physical therapy and rehabilitation centers; and telemedicine. Meanwhile, he also mentioned that there will be Super Health Centers to be established in Hilongos and Baybay City. Through the collaborative efforts of fellow lawmakers, sufficient funds were allocated for 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and 322 in 2023. The Department of Health (DOH), the lead implementing agency, is tasked with identifying strategic areas for construction. The senator likewise encouraged those with health concerns to seek the assistance of any of the 159 Malasakit Centers nationwide, five of which are established in the province. The Malasakit Center brings all relevant agencies under one roof, such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), DOH, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, to ensure poor and indigent patients can conveniently access medical assistance programs to cover their hospital-related expenses. Malasakit Centers have been opened at the New Western Leyte Provincial Hospital in Baybay City, Eastern Visayas Regional Medical Center (EVRMC) in Tacloban City, Ormoc District Hospital in Ormoc City, and Leyte Provincial Hospital and Governor Benjamin T. Romualdez General Hospital and Schistosomiasis Center (GBTRGHSC) in Palo. The program was institutionalized under Republic Act No. 11463, or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which Go principally authored and sponsored. Since the first Malasakit Center was established in 2018, more than seven million Filipinos have benefitted, according to DOH. Go also highlighted Republic Act 11959, also known as the Regional Specialty Centers Act, which he principally sponsored and is one of the authors in the Senate. The Regional Specialty Centers Act plays a pivotal role in the healthcare legislative agenda of the Marcos administration, as detailed in the Philippine Development Plan 2023 to 2028. The said law mandates the establishment of Regional Specialty Centers within existing DOH regional hospitals. As part of his commitment to improving healthcare services in the province, Go sponsored the passage of RA 11567. This legislation increased the bed capacity of EVRMC. Additionally, Go also pushed for the passage of RA 11566, which transformed the Schistosomiasis Control and Research Hospital into the GBTRGHSC. Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, likewise supported the construction of multipurpose buildings in Alangalang, Babatngon, Carigara, Dagami, Isabel, Jaro, La Paz, Leyte, and Tolosa; construction of the Merida Community Hospital; construction of flood control structures in Alangalang, Javier, Tanauan and Tolosa; and acquisition of dump trucks for the local governments of Isabel and Villaba, among others. The post Super Health Center in Tanauan, Leyte breaks ground appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Over 100 collapse-prone schools told to close
Education authorities in the United Kingdom has told at least 104 schools and colleges to shut their buildings that are prone to collapse. The education ministry said Thursday that affected schools buildings are those made with Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete which was widely used for school and college constructions from the 1950s to the mid-1990s. RAAC poses collapse risk over time and schools were warned about this and told to implement mitigations as early as 2018, according to the ministry. In its new guidance, the ministry asked that affected buildings be vacated and to either fully or partially relocate to alternative accommodation. The announcement comes as millions of pupils in England are returning to school after the lengthy summer holidays. “Nothing is more important than making sure children and staff are safe in schools and colleges, which is why we are acting on new evidence about RAAC now, ahead of the start of term,” Education Secretary Gillian Keegan said. Education officials, public-sector unions and opposition parties hit out at the government. Unison union’s head of education Mike Short said it “squandered valuable months hiding this crisis when they should have been fixing dangerous school buildings.” WITH AFP The post Over 100 collapse-prone schools told to close appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Super Typhoon Saola sweeps towards southern China megacities
Tens of millions of people across southern China hunkered down Friday as Super Typhoon Saola swept toward the megacities of Hong Kong and Shenzhen, forcing the cancellations of hundreds of flights, shutting businesses, and closing schools. Packing sustained wind speeds at 210 kilometers (130 miles) per hour as it moved toward Hong Kong, Saola could be one of the most powerful typhoons to hit Guangdong if it makes landfall in the province. By 11 am (0300 GMT), it was 180 km east-southeast of Hong Kong, where the stock market canceled trading because of the T8 signal -- the city's third-highest typhoon warning level. By late morning, neighboring Shenzhen in Guangdong announced the suspension of work, businesses, and market activity from 4 p.m., while transportation will be halted in the evening. "Apart from emergency response personnel and livelihood protection personnel, people are advised not to go out," said the emergency response department of Shenzhen, a city of 17.7 million. "The city will open all shelters for the public to take refuge." Authorities had already issued the highest typhoon warning for the storm, which Chinese state media said would make landfall "in the coastal areas stretching from Huilai to Hong Kong" on Friday afternoon or evening. Across the mainland border in Hong Kong, the city's weather observatory warned that Saola could skirt within 100 kilometers south of the territory, causing a storm surge around Victoria Harbour. "There may be serious flooding," it said, adding that the eastern coastal areas could see water levels reach the heights of 2018 when Typhoon Mangkhut hit Hong Kong and injured more than 300 people. Streets were deserted as a drizzle blanketed Hong Kong Island, with wind and rain expected to pick up later. Businesses and homes around Hong Kong duct-taped glass displays and windows, while office buildings near the harbor barricaded their entrances to prevent water damage. Surfers took advantage of the high winds -- expected to reach 63 kilometers per hour -- and tackled the huge waves generated by the coming typhoon at a Hong Kong beach. Flights mostly normal A direct hit on Hong Kong is rare, but the observatory said it would "assess the need to issue higher tropical cyclone warning signals" in the evening -- with the possibility of raising the threat level to the highest "T10". Hong Kong's airport authority said the morning departing flights were "mostly normal" but from 2 pm, arriving and departing flights have "basically been canceled". "As of now, we have had 366 flights canceled and 40 flights delayed... Thanks to the support of airlines and our various service providers, we could ensure that 600 flights today operated normally," Wing Yeung, general manager of Airport Authority terminal operations, told reporters. Hong Kong's flagship airline Cathay Pacific had already canceled all flights in and out of Hong Kong between 0600 GMT Friday and 0200 GMT Saturday. Its subsidiary, budget airline HK Express, announced it was canceling 70 Friday and Saturday flights in and out of Hong Kong. Saola displaced thousands earlier this week as it passed the northern Philippines, but no direct casualties have been reported so far. Southern China is frequently hit in summer and autumn by typhoons that form in the warm oceans east of the Philippines and then travel west. While they can cause temporary disruption to cities like Hong Kong and Macau, fatalities have become much less common thanks to stronger building codes and better flood management systems. The post Super Typhoon Saola sweeps towards southern China megacities appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go helps secure ambulance for Parañaque City
Senator Bong Go, Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, recently played a pivotal role in providing an ambulance for Barangay La Huerta in Parañaque City on Monday, 28 August. Several barangays have long faced challenges when it comes to emergency medical services. The absence of a dedicated ambulance often leads to delays in medical assistance, putting the lives of residents at risk in various areas of the country. Go, understanding the gravity of the situation, took it upon himself to address this pressing issue. As vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, he was instrumental in securing the necessary funds to acquire the ambulance during the Duterte administration. There are numerous benefits of having a dedicated ambulance in the barangay including faster emergency response. With an ambulance stationed in the barangay, medical teams can reach patients much quicker, thereby reducing the time it takes to get them the medical attention they need. This is particularly crucial in cases of heart attacks, strokes, and other life-threatening emergencies where immediate intervention can be the difference between life and death. The ambulance is also equipped with essential medical supplies and life-saving equipment, ensuring that patients receive the best pre-hospital care possible. Aside from the ambulance, Go supported several initiatives in the city to ensure its progress amid crisis situations. Among the projects are the rehabilitation and construction of several multipurpose buildings, and the rehabilitation of drainage in Brgy. Don Bosco, and the improvement of the Parañaque River Promenade Bridge. Furthermore, Go offered to help those in need of medical care and encouraged them to get medical assistance from the Malasakit Center at Ospital ng Parañaque. Go initiated the Malasakit Centers program in 2018 after he witnessed the struggles of financially disadvantaged Filipinos in settling their medical expenses. The program, which was institutionalized in 2019 under Republic Act No. 11463, was principally authored and sponsored by Go. On the same day, Go also conducted a relief activity for 1,000 indigent students in Brgy. Don Bosco in Parañaque City. The post Bong Go helps secure ambulance for Parañaque City 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 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......»»
Hawaii fire death toll nears 100, and anger grows
The death toll in Hawaii from the deadliest US wildfire in more than a century ticked towards 100 Sunday, fueling criticism that government inaction contributed to the heavy loss of life. At least 96 people were confirmed to have died as of Sunday night, but officials warned the figure was likely to rise as recovery crews with cadaver dogs work their way through hundreds of homes and burned-out vehicles in Lahaina. The historic coastal town on the island of Maui was almost destroyed by the fast-moving inferno early Wednesday morning, with survivors saying there had been no warnings. When asked Sunday why none of the island's sirens had been activated, Hawaii Senator Mazie Hirono said she would wait for the results of an investigation announced by the state's attorney general. "I'm not going to make any excuses for this tragedy," Hirono, a Democrat, told CNN's "State of the Union." "We are really focused, as far as I'm concerned, on the need for rescue, and, sadly, the location of more bodies." More than 2,200 buildings were damaged or destroyed as the fire tore through Lahaina, according to official estimates, wreaking $5.5 billion in damage and leaving thousands homeless. "The remains we're finding are from a fire that melted metal," said Maui Police Chief John Pelletier. "When we pick up the remains... they fall apart." That was making identification difficult, he added, appealing for those with missing relatives to give DNA samples that might speed up the process. Pelletier said cadaver dogs still had a vast area to search in the hunt for what could still be hundreds of people who are unaccounted for. "We're going as fast as we can. But just so you know, three percent -- that's what's been searched with the dogs," he said. Questions over alert system The wildfire is the deadliest in the United States since 1918, when 453 people died in Minnesota and Wisconsin, according to nonprofit research group the National Fire Protection Association. The death toll surpassed 2018's Camp Fire in California, which virtually wiped the small town of Paradise off the map and killed 86 people. Questions are being asked about how prepared authorities were for the catastrophe, despite the islands' exposure to natural hazards such as tsunamis, earthquakes and violent storms. In its emergency management plan last year, the State of Hawaii described the risk wildfires posed to people as being "low." Yet the layers of warning that are intended to buffer a citizenry if disaster strikes appear not to have operated. Maui suffered numerous power outages during the crisis, preventing many residents from receiving emergency alerts on their cell phones. No emergency sirens sounded and many Lahaina residents spoke of learning about the blaze from neighbors running down the street or seeing it for themselves. "The mountain behind us caught on fire and nobody told us jack," resident Vilma Reed, 63, told AFP. "You know when we found that there was a fire? When it was across the street from us." Reed, whose house was destroyed by the blaze, said she was dependent on handouts and the kindness of strangers, and was sleeping in a car with her daughter, grandson and two cats. The New York Times reported Sunday that firefighters sent to tackle the flames found some hydrants had run dry. "There was just no water in the hydrants," the paper quoted firefighter Keahi Ho as saying. Roadblocks The congregation of Grace Baptist Church, which was leveled in the blaze, gathered Sunday in a coffee shop in Kahului for two hours of solace. Pastor Arza Brown led the service in his sandals, the only shoes that survived the blaze that destroyed his house. But the trappings of ministry were far from his mind as he comforted fellow evacuees. "That's one thing about getting together today -- just to be with each other and encourage each other," he said. For some survivors, the difficult days after the tragedy were being worsened by what they see as official intransigence, with roadblocks preventing them from getting back to their homes. Maui police said the public would not be allowed into Lahaina while safety assessments and searches were ongoing -- even some of those who could prove they lived there. Maui's fires follow other extreme weather events in North America this summer, with record-breaking wildfires still burning across Canada and a major heat wave baking the US southwest. Europe and parts of Asia have also endured soaring temperatures, with major fires and floods wreaking havoc. Scientists say human-caused global warming is exacerbating natural hazards, making them both more likely and more deadly. The post Hawaii fire death toll nears 100, and anger grows appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Property developer invests P64 billion to build Grand Westside Hotel
Megaworld Corporation has allocated P64 billion to build the Grand Westside Hotel in Paranaque’s Westside City. Envisioned as the country’s biggest hotel, the first tower of the 19-story buildings is scheduled for completion this year and the second by 2024. Construction is expected to conclude before 2023 ends. The 1,500-room property will offer various room types, including queen suites (up to 48 square meters), twin suites (up to 48 square meters) and executive suites (up to 48 square meters) and twin and queen suites (up to 35 and 37 square meters) designed for specially-abled guests. It will also feature four function rooms that, when combined, can accommodate up to 300 people. Additionally, it will house four dining outlets, including an all-day dining restaurant with a capacity of nearly 250 guests. [caption id="attachment_163850" align="aligncenter" width="1386"] ROOM at Grand Westside Hotel.[/caption] The hotel’s amenities include an expansive pool area, a children’s pool, a gazebo, a fitness gym, massage rooms and outdoor seating. It will also have a two-level retail and commercial space covering 1,995 square meters. Grand Westside Hotel is Megaworld’s 19th hotel property and the second homegrown hotel brand within Westside City. It is the fourth resort complex within Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp.’s Entertainment City project, following Solaire Manila, City of Dreams and Okada Manila. Megaworld is the only Philippine real estate development company to earn a “Hall of Fame” distinction as “Best Developer” after winning the Outstanding Developer Award at the Property and Real Estate Excellence Award by FIABCI Philippines for three straight years (2015, 2016 and 2017). The company was also named the “Best Developer” at the prestigious Philippines Property Awards by PropertyGuru for three consecutive years (2016, 2017 and 2018). The post Property developer invests P64 billion to build Grand Westside Hotel 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 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......»»
DILG eyes NTF-ELCAC projects completion
The Department of the Interior and Local Government vowed on Friday to complete all identified, approved and funded projects under the Barangay Development Program as it urged all stakeholders — especially local government units to intensify efforts through the whole-of-nation approach to end the New People’s Army’s reign of terror in far-flung communities. DILG Office of Project Development assistant director Rene Valera said that they will make sure that all the projects will be implemented based on the national standards and timelines. Aside from farm-to-market roads, other basic social services pushed by the task force are water and sanitation, health stations, school buildings, rural electrification, infrastructures and livelihood. Even with the decreasing funds, Valera said the task force was rapidly gaining ground since its creation through Executive Order 70 in 2018 with the decimation of dozens of terror fronts of the Communist Party of the Philippines. With all these gains, Valera said the decreasing budget from 2021 to present did not frustrate the resolve of the NTF-ELCAC to sustain the fight at the grassroot level to put an end to the senseless war being waged by the obsolete Maoist-inspired NPA. The post DILG eyes NTF-ELCAC projects completion appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go leads groundbreaking of Super Health Center in Hagonoy, Davao del Sur
In his commitment to continue improving access to public health services in the country especially in far-flung communities, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go personally attended the groundbreaking for the Super Health Center in Hagonoy, Davao del Sur on Saturday, July 1. Coinciding with the 70th Araw ng Hagonoy celebration, the event provided an opportunity for Go to greet the people of Hagonoy, emphasizing his dedication to assisting those in need. “Masaya ako na maka-greet sa inyo ngayong araw. Hindi kasi ako makatiis na pupunta ako sa isang lugar na hindi makakatulong. Kaya pinakiusapan ko si Mayor Jay Dureza, sabi ko pupunta ako sa iyong imbitasyon pero pipili tayo ng mga indigents para mabigyan ng tulong, kayo ‘yon ang mabibigyan ng tulong ngayong araw,” shared Go. “Sa totoo lang kami ni (dating) presidente (Rodrigo) Duterte ang dapat na magpasalamat sa inyo dahil binigyan n’yo kami ng pagkakataon na makapagserbisyo sa inyong lahat,” he added. The establishment of Super Health Centers is one of Go’s initiatives, done in collaboration with the Department of Health, aimed at strengthening the healthcare system, particularly access to basic medical services in remote areas. In his capacity as the Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, Go consistently advocated for the establishment of these healthcare facilities, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that more Filipinos have access to affordable healthcare. Super Health Centers will offer basic health services, including 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. 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. In Davao del Sur, Super Health Centers will be strategically located in Digos City, Matanao, and Kiblawan, aside from the one in Hagonoy. Before the groundbreaking, Go and his staff distributed grocery packs, vitamins, masks, shirts, and snacks to 1,000 struggling residents. The senator likewise gave away shoes, bicycles, cellular phones, watches, and balls for basketball and volleyball to select beneficiaries. Moreover, personnel from the Department of Social Welfare and Development extended financial aid to struggling residents in the town through its Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation program. Go also offered additional assistance to those in need of hospital care as he encouraged them to seek the services of the nearby Malasakit Centers at the Davao del Sur Provincial Hospital in Digos City, or Southern Philippines Medical Center in Davao City. “Mayroon na tayong 158 na Malasakit Center sa buong Pilipinas na handang tumulong sa inyo. Batas na ‘yan na aking isinulong noon, pinirmahan ni (dating) pangulong Duterte,” said Go. “Nasa loob na ng ospital ang PhilHealth, DOH, PCSO (Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office), at DSWD. Tutulungan kayo n’yan para sa inyong pagpapa-ospital. Mayroon rin kayong Malasakit Center sa Digos (City), mayroon rin sa Davao city. Lapitan n’yo lang,” he added. The senator initiated the Malasakit Centers program in 2018 and was successful in institutionalizing the program through RA 11463, which he principally sponsored and authored in the Senate in 2019. These centers have assisted over seven million Filipinos thus far, according to the DOH. To help create more economic opportunities in the province, Go, as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, likewise supported the construction of multipurpose buildings in Digos City, Bansalan, Hagonoy, Magsaysay, Malalag, Padada, and Sulop; and the development of a bat cave in Matanao. Go then expressed gratitude to the local officials, led by Hagonoy Mayor Jesus Dureza, Jr., for their unwavering support to the people they represent. “Mga kababayan tandaan natin, minsan lang po tayo dadaan sa mundong ito. Kung ano pong kabutihan o tulong na pwede nating gawin sa ating kapwa gawin na po natin ngayon dahil hindi na po tayo babalik sa mundong ito,” said Go. “Ako po ang inyong Senador kuya Bong Go, patuloy na magseserbisyo sa inyong lahat. Dahil ako’y naniniwala na ang serbisyo po sa tao, serbisyo po ‘yan sa Diyos,” he concluded. #### The post Bong Go leads groundbreaking of Super Health Center in Hagonoy, Davao del Sur appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Prioritize the poor, bring gov’t services closer to needy
For many of our fellow Filipinos who can barely afford their daily expenses, getting treated in a hospital is oftentimes a burdensome choice that they resort to only if it is a matter of life and death. Usually, our struggling kababayans choose to endure their illness for fear of falling deeper into debt due to huge hospital bills, medicines and other expenses. And by this time, an ordinary disease has already become a serious medical condition. Their plight is what inspired us to initiate the Malasakit Centers program in 2018 which provides one-stop shops where our indigent patients may more conveniently access medical assistance from the government. By bringing together programs of various government agencies under one roof, such as the Department of Health, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, the centers streamline the process of availing medical assistance. I have been appealing to officials and workers in the health sector to prioritize the needs of the poor, especially in public health facilities since these patients have nowhere else to turn to but to seek the help of their government. I also appeal to all hospital staff to be patient and compassionate in guiding Filipinos, particularly the poor, so that they can properly have access to the services offered by our public hospitals and from the medical assistance programs available in any of our 158 Malasakit Centers nationwide. That is why as Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and as the principal author and sponsor of the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, I make time to personally check on the operations of our Malasakit Centers across the country, in addition to attending the groundbreaking of Super Health Centers and leading our usual relief distributions for Filipinos in need. On 16 June, I conducted a monitoring visit to two Malasakit Centers in Leyte, where I was honored to be declared as an adopted son of the province through Resolution 2020-337 passed on 24 April 2020 and formally granted on 16 June by the provincial government. During the visit, I recognized the efforts of Governor Carlos Jericho “Icot” Petilla, Baybay City Mayor Jose Carlos “Boying” Cari and Vice Mayor Ernesto Butawan, Vice Governor Sandy Javier, Cong. Carl Cari, Cong. Karen Javier, Board Member Carlo Loreto, and other officials for their commitment to bringing government services closer to their constituents. I also visited the Malasakit Center at Baybay City Immaculate Conception Hospital where we assisted 30 out-patients, 140 in-patients, and 192 front liners, while the DSWD extended financial aid to qualified in-patients. We likewise inspected the Super Health Center and the new boardwalk in the city which I supported to help the community. I then checked on the operations of the Malasakit Center at Ormoc District Hospital in Ormoc City. We also assisted 283 patients and 211 front liners in the hospital, while 133 qualified inpatients received additional assistance from the DSWD. Following this, I led a relief operation for 1,065 struggling residents in the city and attended the ribbon-cutting of the newly constructed pentathlon facility with a dedicated fencing hall, among others — a project I supported as Vice Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance and as Chair of the Senate Committee on Sports, together with the local government led by Cong. Richard Gomez and Mayor Lucy Torres-Gomez. Earlier that week, I was in Davao del Norte to participate in the celebration of the first anniversary of an insurgency-free Davao del Norte led by Gov. Edwin Jubahib, held in Tagum City on 13 June. I also personally spearheaded a relief operation for 1,500 struggling residents in the city. Simultaneously, we provided more support to the community in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment which held an orientation for temporary employment to 721 individuals. Following this, I visited the town of Carmen with Mayor Leony Bahague to witness the groundbreaking of its Super Health Center and provide aid to 1,666 more indigents. On 15 June, I was in Quezon City with my team to witness the inauguration of two multipurpose buildings in Barangays Commonwealth and Payatas which I also supported for funding together with Councilor Mikey Belmonte. We likewise aided a thousand indigents in the city with Mayor Joy Belmonte. We then headed to Marikina City to assist 3,000 more struggling residents from Marikina City and the towns of San Mateo and Rodriguez, Rizal, together with Congresswoman Maan Teodoro and Mayor Marcy Teodoro; as well as the local officials from both towns in Rizal, such as Rodriguez Mayor Ronnie Evangelista and San Mateo Mayor Bartolome “Omie” Rivera Jr., among others. We also visited North Cotabato on 17 June, where we celebrated the 54th Araw ng Alamada led by Mayor Jesus Sacdalan and Cong. Joel Sacdalan and helped 840 farmers and 1,500 struggling residents in the town before going to Matalam to witness aspiring athletes in the Serbisyong Totoo Basketball Sports Clinic and to lead another distribution activity for 1,318 more residents from various sectors together with Gov. Lala Taliño-Mendoza. Across the country, my team aided indigent families and various sectors, including 136 in Samal, 33 in Balanga, and 82 in Limay, Bataan; 990 in Tagudin, Ilocos Sur; 150 in Damulog, Bukidnon; 350 in Iligan City; 100 in Tubod, Lanao del Norte; 550 in Malinao and Sto. Domingo, Albay; and two fire-hit households in Carcar City, Cebu. My team also attended the groundbreaking of the Super Health Center in Tiguma, Pagadian City. It is the fundamental right of every Filipino to receive proper medical care and social assistance from our government. I hope that with compassion for our struggling kababayans and the persistence to help uplift their lives, we can collectively ensure that the poor and most needy are not neglected as we continue our pursuit for progress and development. The post Prioritize the poor, bring gov’t services closer to needy appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»