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Bong Go inspects Siniloan isolation facility
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, the chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, personally inspected the isolation facility at the Siniloan Infirmary Hospital in Siniloan, Laguna on Friday, 25 August. Go, also the vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, has supported the said project during the Duterte administration. The senator, an adopted son of CALABARZON, was also joined by Vice Governor Karen Agapay, Mayor Patrick Go, Vice Mayor Carla Valderrama, and Councilors Carl Anthony Puño, Regie De Jesus, and Councilor Ronald Valeroso, among others. "Maraming salamat po Kuya Bong. Ang bayan po ng Siniloan ay taos-pusong nagpapasalamat sa inyong pagdalaw at kami po ay binibigyan niyo ng suporta. Ang sarili naming Infirmary Hospital ay parang Malasakit Center na rin dahil ang mga kapos nating kababayan na lumalapit doon ay nabibigyan natin ng direktang libreng pag-gagamot. Kaya Kuya Bong, maraming maraming salamat po. Talagang 'Go cares'," Mayor Go expressed. Go’s visit not only underscored his dedication to serving the Filipino people but also highlighted the critical need to bolster the nation's health sector, particularly in the wake of the devastating effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. During the inspection, the senator engaged in conversations with the local officials and even healthcare workers to gain firsthand insights into the challenges faced by the health sector. “Sinusuportahan naman natin ang inyong Infirmary Hospital dito po sa Siniloan at gaya ng sinabi ko kung ano po ang makakatulong sa Siniloan sa pag-unlad ng inyong bayan at makatulong po sa mga mahihirap nating kababayan dito po sa Siniloan ay handa po akong tumulong sa abot ng aking makakaya ay tutulong po ako dito po sa inyong bayan,” said Go in an interview after his visit. Go has consistently stressed the importance of continuous investments in healthcare infrastructure, personnel, and equipment especially in the community level. He pointed out that the pandemic had exposed vulnerabilities in the health sector and underscored the need for proactive measures to ensure that the country is better equipped to handle future health crises. Through a series of innovative initiatives, including Malasakit Centers, Super Health Centers (SHCs), and Regional Specialty Centers (RSCs), Go underscored his unwavering commitment to ensuring that all Filipinos have access to quality medical assistance and services. Malasakit Centers, a brainchild of Senator Go, act as one-stop shops that consolidate the available medical assistance programs of various government agencies, ensuring that poor and indigent patients can readily access the support they need. Since its inception in 2018, Malasakit Centers have provided invaluable assistance to more than seven million patients, alleviating the financial burdens that often accompany medical treatments. There are currently 158 operational centers nationwide, including those at Laguna Medical Center in Sta. Cruz and San Pablo City General Hospital in San Pablo City. Go is the principal author and sponsor of the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019. Meanwhile, Go’s vision of a more improved healthcare sector extends to the establishment of SHCs, which aim to offer comprehensive healthcare services to communities, especially in underserved areas. Such centers are set to be established in cities such as Calamba, Cabuyao, Sta. Rosa, San Pedro, San Pablo, and Biñan, as well as in the towns of Alaminos, Mabitac, Calauan, Los Baños, and Sta. Maria. The SHCs will offer a wide range of services, including database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray and ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service, oncology centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation center, and telemedicine, through which remote diagnosis and treatment of patients are made possible. Through the concerted efforts of the Department of Health (DOH) and lawmakers, adequate funding has been allocated in the national budget for the establishment of 307 SHCs in 2022 and 322 more in 2023. “Ang maganda po diyan early detection, primary care, checkup, konsulta. Diyan ho kayo magpakonsulta sa Super Health Center na itinatayo sa inyong lugar. Early detection (para) hindi lumala ang sakit. It will help decongest sa hospitals, madi-decongest po ang mga hospitals dahil diyan na po gagamutin sa mga Super Health Center,’ Go said. Recognizing the need for specialized care, Go has also championed the establishment of Regional Specialty Centers. These centers focus on specific medical fields, ensuring that patients receive expert care without the need to travel long distances to urban centers. In the Senate, Go principally sponsored and is one of the authors of Senate Bill No. 2212, also known as the Regional Specialty Centers Act, which was recently approved and signed by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. into law. “Pangatlong prayoridad ko po bilang chairman ng Committee on Health ito pong establishing regional specialty center. Maglalagay po ng mga specialty center sa mga DOH regional hospital sa buong Pilipinas. It’s a multiyear plan po. Halimbawa, (kung may problema sa) heart, kidney, lung, neonatal, mental, ito pong mga ortho sa mga may karamdaman sa buto, cancer. Ilalagay na po sa lahat ng DOH regional hospital sa buong Pilipinas para ilapit po natin ang serbisyo medikal sa ating mga kababayan,” explained Go. “Ako po ang (isa sa mga) author at (principal) sponsor niyan sa Senado at pasado na ‘yan, napirmahan na po ni Pangulong Bongbong Marcos dahil priority po ito ni Pangulong Bongbong Marcos. Establishing specialty center in every DOH regional hospital all over the country,” he added. On the same day, Go personally inspected the town’s Sports Complex and provided assistance to 500 struggling residents. The post Bong Go inspects Siniloan isolation facility appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
QC supports renaming two roads after late Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago
Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte on Sunday said they welcomed the Senate's approval of a measure renaming Agham and BIR Roads after the late Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago. "Buong puso po nating sinusuportahan ang hakbang na ito ng Senado na ipangalan kay dating Senador Miriam Defensor-Santiago ang dalawang kalsada ng ating lungsod," Belmonte said. "Napakalaki pong karangalan para sa ating siyudad na dalhin ang pangalan ng ating senadora na walang takot na lumaban kontra katiwalian at tumayo para sa kapakanan at karapatan ng taumbayan," she added. With 22 affirmative votes and zero negative votes or abstention, the Senate approved on third and final reading House Bill 7413 seeking to rename the roadways of Agham Road and BIR Road to “Senator Miriam P. Defensor-Santiago Avenue." Santiago, who passed away in September 2016 after a long battle with lung cancer, held various positions in three branches of government. She served as presiding judge of the Quezon City Regional Trial Court and worked as Commissioner of the Bureau of Immigration (BI) and Secretary of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR). She also served as Senator for three terms. “Siya rin ang una nating Asian judge na nahalal sa International Criminal Court, unang Pilipino na napili bilang commissioner para sa International Development Organization at nagsilbi rin bilang Legal Officer ng UN High Commission for Refugees sa Geneva, Switzerland. Patunay ang lahat ng kanyang pwestong hinawakan kung gaano siya kagaling. Nararapat lamang na mabigyang-halaga ang kanyang pagiging mahusay na lingkod-bayan,”Belmonte said. For her “…bold and moral leadership in cleaning up a graft-ridden government agency”, Defensor-Santiago received the Magsaysay Award for Government Service, known as the Asian equivalent of the Nobel Prize, in 1988. The post QC supports renaming two roads after late Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Addressing poverty, hunger toward inclusive econ recovery
As President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos prepares to deliver his second State of the Nation Address today, I remain hopeful that this can be an opportunity to highlight concrete steps towards a path of full and inclusive economic recovery. I am optimistic that this platform where all branches of government come together to listen to the priorities of the President can strengthen our unity and commitment to uphold the administration’s eight-point Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, which includes food security, supply chain management, energy costs, healthcare and social protection, infrastructure development, green economy, market competition, and entrepreneurship. As I always say, “Dapat po ay walang maiwan na Pilipino lalo na po ang mga mahihirap nating kababayan. Dapat po walang magutom. Importante po ang laman ng tiyan at trabaho po para sa bawat Pilipino (No Filipino should be left behind, especially our poor countrymen. No one should go hungry. Food and work are important for every Filipino).” Amidst the recent lifting of the State of Public Health Emergency due to the Covid-19 pandemic, ensuring food security for all Filipinos must remain a top priority of the Marcos Administration. It is in this light that I fully support President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s “Walang Gutom 2027: Food Stamp Program”, which was recently launched in Tondo, Manila. As one of the priority programs of the Department of Social Welfare and Development, the FSP seeks to reduce involuntary hunger incidents among low-income households. We also respect the decision of President Marcos, Jr. in lifting the State of Public Health Emergency in our country. We trust that it was arrived at after careful consideration of the present health issue and the need to finally open up the economy. With or without the State of Public Health Emergency, the government should fulfill its obligations to protect the lives of Filipinos, safeguard their health, and give what is due to them, especially to our medical frontliners. As a legislator, I have authored and supported bills that aim to address the most urgent issues faced by our fellow Filipinos today. I have also spearheaded the enactment of several legislations that aim to bring healthcare services closer to those in need, especially at the grassroots. As we all know, health is wealth and must be prioritized to attain a productive citizenry. Among these is the Malasakit Centers Act which I principally authored and sponsored in the Senate and was enacted into law in 2019. These centers bring various government agencies under one roof to provide convenient access for indigent patients needing medical assistance. So far, 158 Malasakit Centers are operational nationwide and have helped more than seven million Filipinos, according to the Department of Health. I have recently successfully sponsored the Regional Specialty Centers bill, which I am also a co-author, now awaiting the signature of the President. The bill aims to make available specialized medical facilities in various regions nationwide, benefitting particularly poor and impoverished Filipinos. For example, under the bill, services provided by the Philippine Heart Center, currently located in Quezon City, will also be available in regional DOH hospitals. The enactment of the measure will also include services for a broad range of specialties, including lung care, orthopedics, neonatal care, renal care, cancer care, and mental health, among others, making it a multi-year comprehensive nationwide healthcare improvement plan. Aside from these, we have also continuously supported the establishment of Super Health Centers in strategic locations around the country as a way to provide better access to basic medical services, especially at the grassroots. Through the collective efforts of DOH and 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. Meanwhile, driven by my passion for public service, I continue to respond to the needs of our fellow citizens, particularly the poor, wherever they may be in the country in my capacity as a senator and public servant. On 18 July, we were in Bulacan to attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the San Miguel Super Health Center. Alongside Congresswoman Lorna Silverio, Board Member Raul Marian, and Mayor Roderick Tiongson, we also provided aid to 1,000 impoverished individuals in the town. We then visited the town of Bustos to distribute assistance to 1,000 indigents, in collaboration with Mayor Iskul Juan’s office. I am delighted to announce that on 20 July, we held and witnessed the topping-off ceremony of the New Senate Building in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. This was presided over by Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri, fellow senators, and other officials. This will be the new home of the Senate once completed. My office continues to deliver aid this week to our fellow citizens facing various crises. We promptly responded to the needs of victims of separate fire incidents. In Brgy. Kasangyangan, Zamboanga City, we helped 419 victims; in Baganga, Davao Oriental, we assisted 299 victims; and in Maco and Laak, Davao de Oro, we aided three victims. We conducted a series of aid distributions in Batangas, bringing smiles to 300 residents of Batangas City in partnership with Board Members Lydia Lopez, Maria Louise Gamo Vale, and Jesus de Veyra; 100 in San Juan in partnership with BM Melvin Vidal; 100 in Lipa City in partnership with BM Aries Mendoza; and 100 in Rosario in partnership with BM Jonas Patrick Gozos. We did not neglect the people of Nueva Ecija, where I am considered an adopted son of the province, and managed to spread joy to 364 beneficiaries from Llanera in coordination with their municipal council, and 166 from the Science City of Muñoz, in collaboration with Mayor Baby Alvarez’s office. We also reached San Fernando City, Pampanga, where we were able to assist 16 indigents alongside Mayor Vilma Caluag. In Quezon City, together with Councilor Aiko Melendez, we were able to assist 163 displaced workers. We also supported 100 individuals in Biñan City, Laguna, in collaboration with Councilor Alvin Garcia. Millions of Filipinos require the support and protection of the government. As a legislator, I can only do so much. However, if each of us does our part, then we can be a powerful force that could help our fellow Filipinos break free from the cycle of poverty and hunger. The post Addressing poverty, hunger toward inclusive econ recovery appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Philippines’ Marcos signs $9 bn wealth fund into law
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos on Tuesday signed into law a bill creating a $9 billion sovereign wealth fund aimed at boosting economic growth and infrastructure spending, but critics warned it will be prone to misuse. Marcos had pushed Congress for swift approval of the bill, which was filed by his son and cousin late last year. During a signing ceremony at the presidential palace, Marcos said the fund would "leverage a small fraction" of the government's money without adding to the country's debt burden. "We will leverage on a small fraction of the considerable but underutilized investable funds of government and stimulate the economy without the disadvantage of having additional fiscal and debt burden," Marcos said, less a week before he is due to deliver his second State of the Nation address. But a small group of protesters rallied near the palace in opposition to the law, claiming the fund was a "deception" and would put public money "in danger". The 500-billion-peso "Maharlika Investment Fund" will draw most of its funds from the national government, including the central bank, gaming revenue and two state-owned banks. Private banks and companies will also be allowed to invest. The original proposal was for a $4.9 billion fund that would be partly bankrolled by state-run pensions for government and private-sector workers, sparking public fears that retirement savings could be put at risk. The final version of the bill approved by Congress in May said pension funds would not have to contribute. The fund will be allowed to make a wide range of investments, including in corporate bonds, equities, joint ventures, and infrastructure projects. Marcos said Tuesday the fund would help the government achieve its economic growth targets and reduce reliance on foreign borrowings to pay for new roads and bridges. He insisted the fund would be transparent and only top finance professionals would be hired to manage it. "I assure you that the resources entrusted to the fund are taken care of with utmost prudence and integrity," Marcos said. Conventional sovereign wealth funds are seeded by windfall government profits from natural resources such as oil or minerals. The word "maharlika" is widely associated with Marcos Jr's late dictator father and namesake, who presided over widespread human rights abuses and corruption during his two decades in power. He was ousted in 1986. Marcos Sr claimed to have led an anti-Japanese guerrilla unit called Ang Mga Maharlika during World War II, but he has been accused of lying about his war record. mff/amj/dan © Agence France-Presse The post Philippines’ Marcos signs $9 bn wealth fund into law appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go lauds Super Health Center groundbreaking in Zamboanga City
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, emphasized the significance of investing in health infrastructure, particularly the establishment of Super Health Centers nationwide to bring basic medical services from the government closer to communities. In his video message during the groundbreaking ceremony of Zamboanga City Super Health Center in Barangay Manicahan on Friday, June 30, Senator Go highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach that focuses on bolstering the nation's healthcare system. Through such efforts, the country can better address healthcare challenges and ensure the well-being of its citizens, especially at the grassroots. “The more we should invest sa ating health care. The more na laanan natin ng pondo dahil hindi po natin alam kung ito na ba ang pinakahuling pandemya na darating sa ating buhay. Huwag na po sanang dumating. Sana po’y bumalik na tayo sa normal nating pamumuhay,” Go cited. Senator Go pointed out that Super Health Centers serve as hubs for basic healthcare delivery, providing a wide range of medical services to communities. 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. Through the collective efforts of fellow lawmakers, sufficient funds had were allocated under the Health Facilities Enhancement Program of the Department of Health for 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and 322 in 2023. The senator emphasized that these Super Health Centers would cater to the needs of underserved areas, especially those lacking adequate healthcare infrastructure. By ensuring that every citizen has access to quality healthcare services, regardless of their location or socioeconomic status, the government can take significant strides towards achieving universal healthcare coverage, Go expressed. “Ngayon tatayuan na kayo ng inyong Super Health Center. Pwede diyan ang dental, laboratory, x-ray, at birthing, panganganak. Ang mga buntis pwede nang manganak diyan. Iyan ang Super Health Center,” the senator said. “Iyan ang pamamaraan na ilapit natin ang serbisyo medikal sa ating mga kababayan. Iyan ang Super Health Center,” he highlighted. In line with his priority of protecting the well-being of Filipinos, Go then offered to help any resident who may need medical attention. He encouraged them to visit the Malasakit Centers at the Zamboanga City Medical Center, Mindanao Central Sanitarium, and Labuan General Hospital. The Malasakit Centers program has successfully established 158 centers so far and helped more than seven million Filipinos nationwide. It brings together relevant agencies, including DOH, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, to help reduce a patient’s hospital expenses to the lowest possible amount. He also continues to take significant steps in his commitment to improving healthcare accessibility for Filipinos by principally sponsoring Senate Bill No. 2212, otherwise known as the Regional Specialty Centers Act. The bill was passed before the session break and is now awaiting the approval of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. If the measure is enacted, in Mindanao, specialty centers will be established at Zamboanga City Medical Center, Northern Mindanao Medical Center in Cagayan de Oro City, Mayor Hilarion A. Ramiro Sr. Medical Center in Ozamis City, Southern Philippines Medical Center in Davao City, Davao Regional Medical Center in Tagum City, Cotabato Regional and Medical Center in Cotabato City, Caraga Regional Hospital Surigao City, Adela Serra Ty Memorial Medical Center in Tandag City, and Amai Pakpak Medical Center in Marawi City. The post Bong Go lauds Super Health Center groundbreaking in Zamboanga City appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Regional Specialty Centers eyed
Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go, author and principal sponsor of the Regional Specialty Center bill, recently stressed the significance of these facilities in providing accessible and specialized healthcare services to Filipinos across the country. In an ambush interview after attending the groundbreaking for the Super Health Center in Digos City, the lawmaker explained that the primary objective of these specialty centers is to bridge the gap between the people and essential specialized healthcare services. To recall, Congress on 31 May ratified the Bicameral Conference Report on the Regional Specialty Centers Act and the measure will soon be transmitted to the Office of the President for the approval of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. By establishing these specialty centers in various regional hospitals, Go believes that it will alleviate the burden faced by patients who have to travel to Manila and other urban areas for specialized treatments. He also said that the Department of Health will identify the regional hospitals capable of housing the specialty centers. The senator stressed the importance of bringing medical services closer to Filipinos who may face challenges in accessing healthcare in Metro Manila. Many citizens lack the means to travel to the capital, have no relatives there, and face additional expenses such as transportation, accommodation and food. With the establishment of the Regional Specialty Center, patients will have the opportunity to receive top-notch medical care from government health facilities in their own regions, saving them time, money and effort. Go also revealed plans to expand specialized medical services at the Southern Philippines Medical Center in Davao City to include renal care, brain and spine treatment, and orthopedic services, eliminating the need for patients to travel to the Philippine Orthopedic Center in Quezon City, for example. According to the DoH’s timeline, the establishment of specialty centers in National Capital Region will take place in Amang Rodriguez Memorial Medical Center, Quirino Memorial Medical Center, East Avenue Medical Center, Tondo Medical Center, Jose R. Reyes Memorial Medical Center, Valenzuela Medical Center, Las Piñas General Hospital and Satellite Trauma Center, Rizal Medical Center, and Dr. Jose N. Rodriguez Memorial Hospital and Sanitarium. He also said that the Department of Health will identify the regional hospitals capable of housing the specialty centers. In Luzon, specialty centers will be established in Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center, Region I Medical Center, Ilocos Training and Regional Medical Center, Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital and Medical Center, Cagayan Valley Medical Center, Region II Trauma and Medical Center, Southern Isabela Medical Center, Dr. Paulino J. Garcia Memorial Research and Medical Center, Bataan General Hospital and Medical Center, Mariveles Mental Wellness and General Hospital, Batangas Medical Center, Ospital ng Palawan, Culion Sanitarium and General Hospital, Bicol Medical Center, Bicol Region General Hospital, Geriatric Medical Center, Bicol Medical Center, and Bicol Regional Hospital and Medical Center. The Visayas region will witness the creation of specialty centers in Western Visayas Medical Center, Western Visayas Sanitarium and General Hospital, Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital, Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center, Governor Celestino Gallares Memorial Medical Center and Eastern Visayas Medical Center. In Mindanao, specialty centers will be established in Zamboanga City Medical Center, Northern Mindanao Medical Center, Mayor Hilarion A. Ramiro Sr. Medical Center, Southern Philippines Medical Center, Davao Regional Medical Center, Cotabato Regional and Medical Center, Caraga Regional Hospital, Adela Serra Ty Memorial Medical Center, and Amai Pakpak Medical Center. The post Regional Specialty Centers eyed appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Gatchalian praises Senate approval of Regional Specialty Center Act
Senator Win Gatchalian said Tuesday the passage of the “Regional Specialty Centers Act,” would increase access to affordable and quality specialized healthcare services for Filipinos nationwide. Gatchalian lauded the Senate approval of Senate Bill 2212, which he co-authored and co-sponsored, saying it would ensure that specialty centers in Department of Health-managed hospitals provide expert personnel and medical specialists with the necessary training and appropriate specialist equipment. The new law mandates the DOH to coordinate with the Philippine Heart Center, the National Kidney and Transplant Institute, and the Lung Center of the Philippines and alike to establish criteria for the regional specialty centers. These centers will also collaborate with the DOH to provide specialized training and technical assistance to specialty centers in DOH hospitals. It is hoped to ensure the delivery of quality services and strengthen the network of care across the country for a particular specialty. The post Gatchalian praises Senate approval of Regional Specialty Center Act appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Senate approves bill establishing regional medical specialty centers
The Senate on Monday approved Senate Bill No. 2212, or the Regional Specialty Centers Act, on third and final reading. All 24 senators agreed to pass the measure, which is one of the priority measures in the Common Legislative Agenda of the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council. The bill aims to establish up to 53 specialty centers throughout the country by 2028, in an effort to decentralize the services of specialty centers such as the Philippine Children’s Medical Center, the Philippine Heart Center, the Lung Center of the Philippines and the National Kidney and Transplant Institute, which are all located in Manila Manila. For Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri, principal author and co-sponsor of the measure, the approval of the measure in the Senate is a “fulfillment” of his promise during last year’s campaign. “This bill is a shot in the arm of our public health system. To borrow a medical term, it is a major transfusion of resources to government hospitals in the regions, nearer to the sick who need affordable care,” Zubiri said. The Senate chief explained that the measure will be a huge help for those who the sick Filipinos who live in far-flung areas of the country. “For the sick, the journey to big cities for treatment is the road to bankruptcy. Not only is the hospital bill enormous, transient stay is also expensive. What little money has been begged or borrowed end up being spent on lodging of carers instead of cure. The individual patient may survive, but family finances will not,” he said. “If the people cannot go to where excellent care are, then government must bring excellent medical care to them,” he added. Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go, who sponsored the measure, expressed his gratitude to his fellow senators for supporting the measure. “I want to express my profound thanks to our esteemed colleagues who diligently worked and expressed their unwavering support for the passage of this measure,” Go said in his manifestation. The measure, he said, is a “steadfast commitment, and a collective vision to improve our healthcare system. It demonstrates our dedication to delivering efficient specialized health care to every Filipino.” President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr, in his first State of the Nation Address, highlighted the need to make medical services more accessible outside Metro Manila. The post Senate approves bill establishing regional medical specialty centers appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Go wants Filipino seafarers’ protection
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go delivered a co-sponsorship speech on the proposed Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers Act during the Senate plenary session last Monday, 22 May. The bill was sponsored by Sen. Raffy Tulfo, Chair of the Senate Committee on Migrant Workers. In his speech, Go, as one of the authors of the bill, emphasized the importance of passing the legislation to safeguard the rights and welfare of Filipino seafarers, who he referred to as the “unsung heroes” of the maritime industry. One of the key concerns raised by Go was the long working hours and limited rest periods experienced by seafarers. To address this issue, the proposed Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers Act includes clear guidelines on maximum working hours and adequate rest periods. “With this, we can address the issue of fatigue and enhance the safety and well-being of our seafarers,” he said. Additionally, the proposed legislation recognizes the importance of seafarers’ medical care and access to healthcare services, including mental health support. The Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers Act also places emphasis on training and skills development. The bill promotes quality training programs that enable seafarers to acquire essential expertise and skills, thereby enhancing their competence and effectiveness in their profession. This provision, according to Go, not only benefits individual seafarers but also raises the global competence of the country’s maritime workforce. Go then emphasized that Filipino seafarers have long been in need of comprehensive protection and support. “It is high time that we pass this bill to establish a framework that guarantees their rights, improves their working conditions, and upholds their dignity,” he said. Go also welcomed the Senate approval on third reading of a measure institutionalizing teaching supplies allowance for teachers. Senate Bill No. 1964 or the proposed “Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act” was principally authored and sponsored by Sen. Bong Revilla, Chair of the Senate Committee on Civil Service, Government Reorganization and Professional Regulation. As co-author and co-sponsor of the measure, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go recognized the importance of supporting and improving the economic situation of teachers through the passage of the bill. “The passage of the ‘Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act’ is a significant step towards promoting quality education in the country,” Go added. The post Go wants Filipino seafarers’ protection appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Sen. Go supervises as Super Health Center rises in Guimaras
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go on Friday, 19 May, attended the groundbreaking for the Super Health Center Buenavista in Guimaras, underscoring its role in improving healthcare access for the residents of the town and nearby areas. During the ceremony, Go highlighted the significance of the Buenavista Super Health Center as a means to improve public service delivery, particularly basic healthcare, in the area. “Alam n'yo, sa kakaikot ko sa buong Pilipinas, marami pong mga buntis na nanganganak na lang nang hindi umaabot sa ospital dahil sa layo ng byahe. Ngayon po na magkakaroon na ng Super Health Center dito sa inyong lugar, mas mailalapit na sa inyo ang serbisyong medikal at makakatulong rin po yun na hindi mapuno ang mga ospital," said Go. Go emphasized the importance of accessible basic healthcare services, particularly in remote island communities, where access to quality medical care can be limited. “Hindi niyo na kailangan bumyahe pa ng napakalayo para magpagamot. Ilalapit na ng gobyerno sa mga tao ang serbisyo na inyong kailangan pagdating sa pangunahing pangangalagang pangkalusugan,” he added. The Super Health Center will bridge this gap, providing residents with basic medical services and facilities, including database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray and ultrasound), pharmacy and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services in SHCs 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. The Department of Health, the lead implementing agency, identifies the strategic areas where they will be constructed. In Guimaras, Super Health Centers will be built in Jordan and Nueva Valencia, in addition to the one in Buenavista. Meanwhile, Go's efforts of improving public service delivery extend beyond healthcare infrastructure. As vice chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, Go likewise took the opportunity to inspect a new seawall and wharf in Buenavista, two crucial projects that he actively supported during the time of former president Rodrigo Duterte. The construction of the seawall and wharf aims to enhance the town's connectivity, allowing for faster and safer transportation of goods and services while bringing in more economic opportunities for its people. Following the groundbreaking, Go and his team then distributed assistance to 1,462 indigent families in the town. The aid provided included food packs, vitamins, masks, and snacks. Select beneficiaries also received a bicycle, a mobile device, a shirt, a watch, and pairs of shoes, as well as basketballs and volleyballs. Moreover, personnel from the Department of Social Welfare and Development provided assistance to qualified beneficiaries. The senator extended further aid to residents seeking medical care by informing them about the availability of a Malasakit Center at the Dr. Catalino Gallego Nava Provincial Hospital (Dr. CGNPH) in Jordan. He had personally conducted a monitoring visit to the Malasakit Center earlier that day and extended aid to patients and frontliners while the DSWD also provided financial assistance to qualified patients there. Principally authored and sponsored by Go, the Malasakit Centers Act aims to establish Malasakit Centers in qualified public hospitals to conveniently assist particularly poor and indigent patients with their hospital bills by covering various patient services and fees. There are now 157 Malasakit Centers nationwide. Since the first Malasakit Center was established five years ago, the centers have helped more than seven million Filipinos nationwide, according to the DOH. “Hindi niyo na kailangang pumila o umikot pa sa iba’t ibang opisina para humingi ng tulong pampagamot dahil nasa loob na sila ng iisang kwarto. Lapitan niyo lang ang Malasakit Center at wala itong pinipili. Karapatan niyo bilang mga Pilipino ang maka-avail ng serbisyo nito,” he cited. Meanwhile, Go, who is chair of the Senate Committee on Health, also mentioned ongoing efforts to upgrade the CGNPH to become a Level II hospital. He mentioned that the upgrade is included in House Bill No. 3344, which is currently pending approval in the Legislature. Go commended the local officials for their steadfast dedication to protecting the welfare of their constituents and ensuring they receive sufficient assistance during challenging times. They include Guimaras Lone District Representative Lucille Nava, Uswag Ilonggo Partylist Representative Jojo Ang, Governor JC Rahman Nava, Vice Governor John Edward Gando, Buenavista Mayor Samuel Gumarin, and Vice Mayor Cyril Beltran, among others. In addition to the aforementioned projects in Buenavista, Go also supported various other initiatives in the province, including the acquisition of a dump truck for the local government of Jordan. On the same day, Go also took part in the celebration of the Manggahan Festival. During the festivities, he attended the First Manggahan Open Volleyball Tournament, further showcasing his commitment to engaging with the local community, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle through sports, and supporting grassroots sports development. The post Sen. Go supervises as Super Health Center rises in Guimaras appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Mental health inclusion to PhilHealth eyed
Senator Mark Villar on Wednesday has filed a measure seeking to expand the country’s health insurance program for about 3.6 million Filipino patients with psychiatric disorder. The lawmaker filed the Senate Bill 2062 or an Act Expanding Philippine Health Insurance Coverage, granting also a benefit package to all mental health patients in the country. “We should not set aside mental health disorders, it’s affecting a lot of Filipinos. In fact, according to the Department of Health there are around 3.6 million Filipinos facing mental health issues,” Villar said in a statement. Citing the recently published study by the Harvard Humanitarian Initiative Resilient Communities Program, Villar underscored the “costly treatments and services” that usually barred patients to access proper mental health care treatment in the Philippines. The measure is set to provide benefit packages to those with mental disabilities covering emergency services, psychiatric and neurological services, as well as mental health gap action program. “We are pushing for a benefit package so that our fellow countrymen will no longer thing about the treatment cost,” he said, noting that mental health patients are likewise entitled to gain support from the government. Under the bill, non-member parents of minors suffering from mental health disorders are also allowed to avail of the treatment package from the PhilHealth. “Mental health is equally important as physical health. It is a fundamental aspect of our overall well-being. We filed this bill to normalize seeking help for mental health disorders and to break the stigma that comes with it. By recognizing and prioritizing mental health, we can create a healthier, happier, and more inclusive society for Filipinos, especially the youth,” Villar said. Currently, PhilHealth is offering inpatient benefits being paid to the accredited Health Care institution; as well as outpatient benefits with day surgeries, radiotheraphy, hemodialysis and blood transfusion. Under the PhilHealth Z benefits program, those 20 listed illness and health conditions including the Acute lymphocytic leukemia, Early breast cancer, prostate cancer, kidney transplant, standard risk coronary bypass graft, tetralogy of Fallot, ventricular septal defect, cervical cancer, Z MORPH (Mobility, Orthosis, Rehabilitation and Prosthesis Help), selected orthopedic implants, peritoneal dialysis, colon cancer, rectal cancer, expanded mobility orthosis rehabilitation help, premature and small newborns, children with developmental disabilities, children with mobility impairment, children with visual impairment, children with hearing impairment and rheumatic heart disease. PhilHealth also covers benefits for outpatient malaria package, HIV-AIDS package, anti-tuberculosis treatment through directly-observed treatment Short-course, voluntary Surgical Contraception Procedures and animal bite treatment Package. The post Mental health inclusion to PhilHealth eyed appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
US Justice Department taking abortion pill fight to Supreme Court
The US Justice Department said Thursday that it will go to the Supreme Court to appeal restrictions imposed on a widely-used abortion pill in the latest round of a fierce battle over reproductive rights. The decision by President Joe Biden's administration came just hours after an appeals court rejected moves to ban mifepristone outright, but imposed a series of measures restricting access to the pill. As the Justice Department prepared an emergency filing with the nation's highest court, the White House slammed a Florida bill that would ban abortion in the third most populous state after six weeks, before many women even know they are pregnant. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said the bill passed on Thursday by the Republican-controlled legislature in Florida was "extreme and dangerous" and "flies in the face of fundamental freedoms." More than a dozen US states have passed laws severely restricting abortion since the conservative-dominated Supreme Court last year overturned the landmark Roe v. Wade ruling that had enshrined the constitutional right to abortion for half a century. Mifepristone, which was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2000 and accounts for more than half the abortions in the United States, has become the centerpiece of the country's latest clash over women's reproductive freedom. Attorney General Merrick Garland said the Justice Department will seek "emergency relief from the Supreme Court to defend the FDA's scientific judgment and protect Americans' access to safe and effective reproductive care." Speaking to reporters during Biden's visit to Dublin, Ireland, Jean-Pierre said "we believe that the law is on our side, and we will prevail." Late Wednesday, the US Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals said mifepristone, also known as RU 486, should remain available pending a full hearing of the case, but limited access to the first seven weeks of pregnancy, down from 10. The appeals court also said in-person visits would be necessary to obtain the pill -- a requirement lifted in recent years -- and blocked the medication from being sent by mail. The 2-1 ruling by the conservative-majority appeals court in New Orleans, Louisiana, came after a US District Court judge in Texas overturned the FDA's two-decades-old approval of the drug last Friday. 'Furious' The appeals court said anti-abortion opponents had waited too long to challenge the drug's approval by the FDA but gave them a victory of sorts by imposing restrictions on its use, a move denounced by groups seeking to maintain access to abortion. "We are furious that yet another court would choose to jeopardize the health and futures of the millions of people who rely on mifepristone for abortion care," said Planned Parenthood president Alexis McGill Johnson. Jennifer Dalven, director of the ACLU Reproductive Freedom Project, said "unless the Supreme Court steps in, this decision will prevent many people from getting abortion care and force them to remain pregnant against their will." The anti-abortion group Susan B. Anthony described the appeals court ruling by two judges appointed by former Republican president Donald Trump as a "win." "The court recognized that the abortion pill is dangerous and rolled back Biden's reckless mail-order abortion scheme," said Susan B. Anthony state policy director Katie Daniel. Mifepristone is one component of a two-drug regimen that can be used in the United States through the first 10 weeks of pregnancy. It has a long safety record, and the FDA estimates 5.6 million Americans have used it to terminate pregnancies since it was approved. 'Unborn human' Last week's ruling by Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk, also a Trump appointee, seeking to impose a nationwide ban on mifepristone came in response to a suit by a coalition of anti-abortion groups. The judge, in his decision, adopted language used by abortion opponents, saying the drug was used to "kill the unborn human." Kacsmaryk said the two-drug regimen that includes mifepristone had resulted in "thousands of adverse events suffered by women and girls," including intense bleeding and psychological trauma. But the FDA, researchers, and the drugmaker say decades of experience have proven the medication to be safe and effective when used as indicated. The Biden administration and leading pharmaceutical and biotech companies also argued that Kacsmaryk's ruling risked undermining the entire drug approval authority of the FDA. "If this decision stands, no medication -- from chemotherapy drugs to asthma medicine, to blood pressure pills, to insulin -- would be safe from attacks," said Vice President Kamala Harris. Polls repeatedly show a clear majority of Americans support continued access to safe abortion, even as conservative groups push to limit access to the procedure -- or ban it outright. The post US Justice Department taking abortion pill fight to Supreme Court appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
A substantial boost for cancer care
The Philippine Health Insurance Corp. has announced the perfect gift for women when it increased the “Z-benefit” package for breast cancer from P100,000 to P1.4 million. .....»»
Labor groups cheer Senate’s approval of P100 wage hike bill
Labor groups cheer Senate’s approval of P100 wage hike bill.....»»
Go pushes welfare of entertainment workers
Sen. Bong Go yesterday lauded the approval of Senate Bill 2505, better known as the Eddie Garcia bill, on the third and final reading last Monday......»»
EDITORIAL — ‘Very rotten’
A process has long been in place for the approval of the national budget. Malacañang, through the Department of Budget and Management, submits its proposed national expenditure program to Congress, and both chambers deliberate on the NEP to come up with their respective versions of the budget bill......»»
Empowering stakeholders for better liver care
In the just-concluded month of January, the country marked the annual observance of liver cancer and viral hepatitis prevention and awareness......»»
US Lawmakers Should Protect Vaccination Mandates, Sex Ed in Schools
Cervical cancer should be almost nonexistent, as it's one of the most treatable and preventable cancers. However, women in the United States are still dying at alarming rates.In 2009, the US Congress established January as Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. This month serves as a public health campaign to educate people who have a cervix about how to take care of it. This includes noticing signs of cervical cancer.....»»
Marcos Oks rice subsidies for cops, soldiers
Amid rumors of destabilization, President Marcos yesterday reaffirmed his commitment to promote the welfare of uniformed personnel and their families and announced the approval of funding for rice and health care benefits......»»
LGU execs laud passage of Negros Island Region bill
Local government officials in Negros have lauded the approval on second reading of a bill creating the Negros Island Region......»»