We are sorry, the requested page does not exist
Pilmico on World Bread Day: Bread’s transformative impact on communities
Every year on 16 October, the world celebrates “World Bread Day” to honor all kinds of bread around the world. A dietary staple in people’s lives for centuries, bread plays a much more significant role in the lives of those who bake bread as their primary source of livelihood. Pilmico has been a steadfast partner of bakers since 1962. It has given out 108 bakery kits nationwide since it started distributing livelihood kits in 2016. In honor of the “World Bread Day,” Pilmico reflects on how it has helped change the lives of several people through bread. Feeding the future Pilmico’s “Kutitap Feeding Program” was launched as a sustainable initiative to address malnutrition in public schools while at the same time supporting local bakeries. The program was made possible through the help of its partner bakeries, who went through technical training and received equipment from Pilmico. They provided bread to public schools within their communities. The Kutitap Feeding Program started in Iligan City in 2015 and in Tarlac in 2018. Since then, the program has progressively evolved through the years. Due to pandemic restrictions, it was turned into the “Kutitap Care Package,” where students received baked goods and eggs through its partner bakery, Aguila Bakeshop. Now, the program has also started incorporating meats in the meals served to the daycare students in Bamban, Tarlac. Aside from feeding students with nutritional bread, this initiative also contributed to the success of some partner bakeries such as C&G Bakery from Iligan City. Marlon C. Gecale, owner of C&G Bakery, has devoted his life to baking — from when he was a teen working as a baker to an adult owning his bakery. In between, he worked as an OFW and his passion for baking grew stronger, prompting him to have his own bakery. After buying an oven with his first salary, Gecale and his wife spent the next five years building their small bakery while he worked abroad. In 2017, they applied to become a bakery partner for Pilmico’s “Kutitap Feeding Program.” They were determined to prove that their small bakery could fulfill the demands of the program despite their new and small bakery. By partnering with Pilmico for the Kutitap Feeding Program, C&G Bakery, owned by Marlon Gecale, was able to expand to three more branches in Mindanao. Gecale underwent a month-long training with Pilmico where he earned new technical skills in baking and new recipes, which he still uses in his bakery. Since then, their bakery has grown and has been a reliable partner of Pilmico in various programs including the Iligan Community Pantry. Today, C&G Bakery has expanded to three branches in Iligan City, Misamis Oriental and Zamboanga del Sur. 'Tinapay Ti Uno' program Aside from Pilmico’s own initiatives, it has partnered with local government units such as the Department of Agrarian Reform Tarlac for the “Tinapay Ti Uno” program in partnership with Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, Department of Trade and Industry and the Office of Congressman Jaime Cojuangco from the 1st District of Tarlac province. This program aims to create healthy buns using locally sourced ingredients from Agrarian Reform Beneficiary Organizations and provide them to public school students in the 1st district of Tarlac. A total of 11 ARBOs participated in a bun and special bread competition where the winners will be responsible for the distribution of buns to the students. In the competition held last 24 2023, three ARBOs were hailed as the grand winners: Cabayaoasan Farmer Agriculture Cooperative from Paniqui, Tarlac; Bacabac Farmers Producers Cooperative from Brgy. Bacabac, Camiling, Tarlac; and Sinulatan 1st Agriculture Cooperative from Brgy. Sinulatan 1st, Camiling, Tarlac. Each winner received a bakery livelihood package from Pilmico that included an oven, stainless steel table, bread rack, bread showcase, proofer with cover, spiral mixer and 10 Pilmico flour sacks. In addition to the equipment, the winners were to receive technical assistance and bakery management training from Pilmico as they set up their bakery business. During the winners’ onsite bakery training in Camiling, Tarlac last 3 October, it was revealed that two out of the three ARBOs have already opened their bakeries within their communities. In celebration of “World Bread Day,” Pilmico emphasizes its unwavering commitment to providing high-quality flour that helps create nutritional bread products. “We believe in the transformative power that a simple loaf of bread can bring to people’s lives, especially those who rely on it as their main source of livelihood. Pilmico is dedicated to delivering the finest flour for the community’s bread making needs,” said Ma. Katrina Bayog, Pilmico Corporate Social Responsibility manager. The post Pilmico on World Bread Day: Bread’s transformative impact on communities appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Aboitiz Construction kicks off expansion works for Monde Nissin’s bakery plant in Davao City
Aboitiz Construction sealed another project for Monde Nissin Corporation (MNC) which involves the construction of nine ancillary structures and external works for the food company’s expanded bakery plant in Brgy. Ilang, Davao City. This project is poised to improve MNC’s facilities, strengthening their commitment to enhancing food security in the region and providing local job opportunities. For completion next year, Aboitiz Construction will spearhead a wide array of tasks, encompassing earthworks, structural, and architectural works to build the ancillary structures. Simultaneously, the external works include civil works, site development, and the building of roads and drainages. The establishment of the new facilities will help strengthen MNC’s sustainability commitment to making eco-efficiency possible and making better food accessible to their consumers. Integral to this project is Aboitiz Construction's ongoing involvement with MNC in site and foundation works, a contract secured in June 2023. This phase includes various site development activities covering an expansive area of over 18,000 square meters, preparing the ground for the bakery plant's expansion. “We are very thrilled to start a new construction project with Monde Nissin Corporation, one of our valued repeat clients. This collaboration stands as a testament to the trust and confidence they have in our capabilities. As we embark on this journey, we will ensure to bring our expertise, dedication, and teamwork to the forefront once again,” said Aboitiz Construction Vice President for Business Development Construction Levi Agoncillo. True to its commitment to providing jobs for many Filipinos, the team plans to hire nearly 100 skilled workers, with an emphasis on employing local talents. Aboitiz Construction has been enhancing its expertise in light industries. Currently, the company is actively engaged in a land development project for LIMA Estate, covering 72.2 hectares in Batangas, showcasing its commitment to excellence and growth in the construction sector. The post Aboitiz Construction kicks off expansion works for Monde Nissin’s bakery plant in Davao City appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go helps recovering fire victims rebuild in Valenzuela City
The Office of Senator Christopher “Bong” Go led a relief operation for fire victims in Valenzuela City on Tuesday, September 5, as part of the senator’s efforts to help disaster-affected households rebuild and recover. The distribution was held at Arkong Bato National High School in coordination with Mayor Weslie “Wes” Gatchalian. The senator’s team provided grocery packs, masks, shirts, vitamins, snacks, and balls for basketball and volleyball to 225 recovering fire victims. They also gave away shoes and mobile phones to select individuals. Meanwhile, the National Housing Authority (NHA) provided housing assistance to each affected family through the Emergency Housing Assistance Program (EHAP). “Isinulong din natin na mabigyan sila ng National Housing Authority ng ayuda pambili ng housing materials tulad ng pako, yero at iba pa upang maisaayos muli ang kanilang mga tirahan,” Go highlighted. “Itong EHAP program, isinulong ko ito noon at patuloy na sinusuportahang mapondohan ang programa ngayon upang mas marami pang mga biktima ng sakuna ang makapagpatayo ng maayos na bahay at makabangon muli mula sa trahedya,” he added. The relief activity was attended by several officials, including NHA Assistant General Manager Alvin Feliciano, who expressed his appreciation for the senator, saying, “Senator Bong Go, ang buong barangay po ng Arkong Bato ay nagpapasalamat sa inyong biyaya. Napakalaking tulong po nito sa amin. Lalo na para makaahon sila sa buhay. Mr. Malasakit, saludo po kami sa inyo.” Meanwhile, Go highlighted Republic Act No. 11589, also known as the Bureau of Fire Protection Modernization Act of 2021. The law, which was authored and co-sponsored by Go, aims to enhance the capabilities of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) through a ten-year modernization program, which includes the recruitment of more firefighters, acquisition of new fire equipment, and specialized training. “Alam ko pong mahirap ang masunugan pero magtiwala lang po kayo sa gobyerno at tayo po ay makakaahon muli. Ang importante ay walang nasaktan. Ang pera ay kikitain naman po natin yan pero ang buhay ay hindi nabibili ng pera. A lost life is a lost life forever kaya mag-ingat tayo,” said Go. The lawmaker likewise continues to push for the enactment of Senate Bill No. 192, which seeks to institutionalize the Rental Housing Subsidy Program. Under the proposed measure, a housing and social protection program will be developed to provide disaster victims better and more affordable access to the formal housing market through the provision of rental subsidies provided by the government. Meanwhile, Go filed SBN 193, or the proposed Mandatory Evacuation Center Act, which aims to ensure that disaster victims will have temporary shelters that will guarantee their safety and welfare while they recover and rebuild their lives. The senator also encouraged residents to take advantage of the services offered in Malasakit Centers nationwide, including those established in Valenzuela Medical Center and Valenzuela City Emergency Hospital, which are both located in the city. The Malasakit Center is a one-stop shop that brings together relevant agencies to provide medical aid to poor and indigent Filipinos. Go is the principal author and sponsor of the Malasakit Centers Act, which has successfully assisted over seven million Filipinos through its 158 operational centers nationwide. “Ako po ay nasunugan at tinulangan po ako ng mahal na mayor at mahal na Senator Bong Go sa kahirapan. Ako rin po ay nanganak at tinulungan ng Malasakit Center sa aking bill. Kaya naman nagpapasalamat ako kay Senator Bong Go sa programa niya dahil ako ay natulungan ng Malasakit Center,” Manilyn Sarmiento, one of the beneficiaries, expressed. Go also expressed his support for the construction of 28 Super Health Centers in strategic locations across Metro Manila, in collaboration with the Department of Health. These centers are designed to offer a wide range of basic health services, 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. Moreover, echoing President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr.’s priority of bringing specialized medical services closer to other parts of the country, Go has successfully sponsored in the Senate the Regional Specialty Centers Act which he also filed as one of its authors. As vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, Go has been a staunch supporter of various initiatives in the city. These include the construction of the Valenzuela Center for Academic Excellence, acquisition of ambulance units for the city government, and the construction of a multipurpose building in Brgy. Canumay West. The post Bong Go helps recovering fire victims rebuild in Valenzuela City appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
BFP, volunteer groups discuss better coordination
The Bureau of Fire Protection on Thursday said its Pasig City command conducted a city-wide dialogue with volunteer groups and different organizations where they discussed the importance of partnership and coordination during emergency responses. BFP - National Capital Region Director, Chief Supt. Nahum Tarroza, and his command group entertained questions, ideas, apprehensions, and even worries from among the attendees composed of some officials of the local government unit, along with representatives of 28 non-government organizations and 16 barangay brigades. Two village leaders Irma Gomez of Brgy. Sumilang and Joel Dela Cruz of Brg. Malinao also skipped other chores to attend the meeting, dubbed “Fostering Partnership between BFP and Pasig City Barangay Brigades and Fire Volunteer Groups”, held at the Power Tech Building inside the Meralco compound in Ortigas Center, Pasig City on Tuesday afternoon. The question-and-answer portion made the event lively with participants airing and opening up their respective shares of opinion and concerns touching on several issues surrounding the firefighting task towards the main goal which is to save lives and properties. Pasig City Fire Marshal Supt. Elaine Baylon Evangelista said that the dialogue was aimed at making every volunteer understand that the national office of the BFP has a policy and implementing guidelines for them to follow. She did not elaborate further. She also reminded the participants that the city fire department on orders of the national headquarters will always be strict in issuing accreditation certificates to volunteers and applicants citing how risky the job is. Recently, Interior Secretary Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr. ordered BFP chief, Director Louie Puracan, to implement stricter rules in requiring qualification standards among the fire brigades and its members in the wake of the death of a 62-year-old woman and the injury of eight others who were accidentally hit by a volunteer firetruck while responding a fire incident in Tondo, Manila. During the dialogue, Tarroza said he was amazed at the activeness of the Pasig volunteers and other fire and barangay brigades gauging the way they showed their passion to learn more and their vows to serve and do the risky firefighting jobs to save lives and properties. When asked by this reporter what they have achieved in the event, the BFP-NCR head quickly said; “Marami, nalaman natin na very active pala talaga ang mga volunteers sa Pasig, at nalaman natin na kumpleto, meron din Brgy. volunteers, merong NGO supported by different organizations like Chinese volunteers, tapos meron pa ditong company volunteers, like Meralco, sila ay open sa lahat ng pagbabago at willing sila mag-cooperate talaga sa BFP para sa ikabubuti ng ating mamamayan.” Tarroza also took the occasion as an opportunity to announce that Secretary Abalos is also looking forward to meeting all fire volunteers in Metro Manila to personally thank and congratulate them for giving their time to serve even in a very risky way. He said that this event is expected to gather around 8,000 to 10,000 fire volunteers and groups. “Isipin mo, walang allowance ang mga ito, walang insurance at walang support from the government and yet nagsasakripisyo sila para sa iisa nating adhikain. . . . ang magsilbi sa bayan,” Tarroza stressed. The post BFP, volunteer groups discuss better coordination appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PAF enhances HADR capabilities through Pacific Airlift Rally
The promising Pacific Airlift Rally 2023 is beneficial to the Philippine Air Force to further enhance its capabilities in humanitarian aid and disaster relief operations. The Philippine Air Force co-host the airlift rally for the first time after 12 reiteration since it began in 1997. PAR is a biennial military airlift symposium for nations within the Indo-Asia-Pacifi region. This year’s reiteration airlift capability-building exercise, which was started on 14 August and will run until 18 August, is being participated by 14 countries including the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, Japan, United States, Bangladesh, Brunei, Canada, Maldives, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Timor Leste, Singapore, and Mongolia. PAF Air Mobility Command chief, MGen. Joannis Leonardi said the PAR-23 primarily aims “to bolster operational readiness, cultivate interoperability, and foster international cooperation among the participating countries.” Edward Khim, the civil servant of the Pacific Air Forces' Command headquarters, said the United States usually invites at least 25 multi-national allies to participate in the airlift exercises that can be replicated in real-world scenarios such as HADR efforts in areas affected by the natural disasters and other humanitarian emergencies. “We try to learn from each other. All the different countries have different capabilities and different experiences in different kinds of situations. So we bring countries together in these types of scenarios and exercises to be able to learn from each other and to be able to apply those lessons learned,” Khim said. The PAR-23 activities include Flying Training and Table Top Exercises, and Subject Matter Expert Exchanges. Among the drills conducted are the mass casualty evacuation tabletop airlift and airdrop exercises. PAF spokesperson Col. Consuelo Castillo said over 100 jumpers from the Philippine Air Force, Philippine Army, and United States Air Force performed personnel airdrop drills over the skies of Brgy. Liwayway, Sta Rosa, Nueva Ecija on 16 August. The jumpers along with several jump masters and aircrew from PAF, USAF, Royal Malaysian Air Force, Indonesian Air Force, and Japan Air Self-Defense Force boarded the two USAF C-130 Medium Lift Aircraft and one C-130 of RMAF at Clark Air Base, Mabalacat City, Pampanga. The jumpers exited the aircraft to perform military free-fall at an altitude of 6000 feet while the static fall paratroopers jumped from 1500 feet. Consuelo said the airdrop exercise exhibited interoperability among the participating air forces and enhanced troop capabilities in precise and accurate para-drop which can be used during various missions such as troop infiltration, and insertion of Para-rescuers during HADR. Last Tuesday, participants performed a "low-cost, low-altitude” airdrop, a method of delivering necessary supplies from the aircraft, in Sta. Rosa, Nueva Ecija. "The LCLA serves as an opportunity for the PAF and other international counterparts to share knowledge and expertise on critical airdrop techniques," Castillo said. PAF’s 220th Airlift Wing C130 pilot, Maj. Virgilio Villanueva, cited the importance of continuous improvement of the country’s airlift and airdrop capabilities, especially in medical missions and relief operations during emergencies. “We are acquiring different knowledge, techniques, and procedures from our counterparts so we can apply it in our own setting,” Argillas said. He recalled that PAF was able to perform airlifting of wounded during the infamous Marawi siege and Zamboanga siege. Hence, improving their airlifting capabilities remains essential for future similar scenarios. The post PAF enhances HADR capabilities through Pacific Airlift Rally appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go provides support to flood victims in Davao City
In an effort to bolster the country's disaster preparedness and response capabilities, Senator Christopher "Bong" Go has been advocating for two crucial bills in the Senate that he earlier filed: Senate Bill No. (SBN) 188, which seeks to establish the Department of Disaster Resilience (DDR), and SBN 193, mandating the establishment of mandatory evacuation centers nationwide. On Saturday, July 29, Go led two relief operations for thousands of flood victims in Barangays Lasang and Bunawan in Davao City. In his speech, Go said that the government should remain proactive in its approach in dealing with disaster-related situations, considering that the country is highly vulnerable to natural calamities. SBN 188 proposes the creation of the DDR, an independent government agency dedicated to strengthening the nation's resilience against the impacts of natural and human-induced disasters. The DDR aims to consolidate disaster-related functions and resources from different agencies under a single, unified body. By streamlining disaster response efforts, the department can facilitate quicker and more efficient aid delivery to affected communities during times of crisis. “Importante po ito sa akin. Unang-una, halimbawa dito po sa Barangay Lasang, binaha sila. Di ba ang barangay po ang nakikipag-coordinate kaagad with the LGUs. Ito pong barangay level na pagbaha, how about ‘yung mga national level, o municipal level o city level, o province-wide na pagbaha… maayos na koordinasyon ang kailangan,” he said. “Bago dumating ang bagyo, balita pa lang sa PAGASA, coordination kaagad ng Department of Disaster Resilience, kung mayroon tayong isang departamentong nakatutok para sa mga disaster related… bago dumating ang bagyo, coordination with LGUs. Ilikas ang mga kababayan natin sa ligtas na lugar, dalahin sa mga evacuation center. Preposition of goods by the DSWD,” Go added. “Kailangan koordinasyon kaagad ng departamento na i-involve kaagad ang mga ibang departamento na kasamahan niya. DSWD preposition of goods, mga Coast Guard, Navy para ilikas agad ang mga kababayan natin sa ligtas na lugar at maayos na evacuation center, sa Department of Health para malinis ang evacuation center, sanitation para ligtas ang mga kababayan natin. At pag-alis ng bagyo, hindi lang puro task force, dapat isang departamento na pwedeng mag-coordinate hanggang makabalik sa normal na pamumuhay ang lugar na tinamaan ng bagyo. Restoration of normalcy kaagad at rehabilitation effort,” he said. The Office of Civil Defense has recently voiced its support for the establishment of the DDR, emphasizing the importance of such institution in improving operations in managing and responding to future crises. "Things can be better if there will be an independent authority or department, but it’s not that simple – tanggap po namin iyon… We leave it to Congress and we leave it to the Palace, to Malacañang. Meanwhile, kami naman, we are doing our best given the limitations, makakaasa po kayo," OCD Administrator Ariel Nepomuceno said in a past interview. Alongside the establishment of DDR, Go champions SBN 193, which calls for the creation of mandatory evacuation centers across the Philippines. These evacuation centers are designed to be equipped with necessary facilities to provide temporary shelter and essential services to evacuees during disasters. The senator noted that these evacuation centers will be strategically placed in areas less prone to hazards, ensuring the safety and well-being of evacuees during disasters. Furthermore, the centers will be equipped with essential amenities such as food, clean water, medical services, sanitation facilities, and temporary sleeping quarters. Go cited that the Philippines, located in the Pacific Ring of Fire and the typhoon belt, is no stranger to the destructive forces of nature. “Yearly, the country faces the threat of typhoons, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides, and other hazards. These disasters not only result in loss of lives and livelihoods but also impede economic progress and development,” shared Go. To minimize the devastating impact of disasters, Go underscored that comprehensive disaster resilience measures are imperative. The senator is confident that by supporting these priority bills, the Senate and the Filipino people can collectively work towards a safer, more resilient nation, where communities can recover swiftly and thrive even in the face of adversity. “Ang lugar natin nasa Pacific Ring of Fire tayo. Prone tayo sa mga bagyo, prone tayo sa pagputok ng bulkan, prone tayo sa sunog, ‘di ba? So dapat po ay magkaroon na tayo ng isang maayos na departamento, Department of Disaster Resilience at Mandatory Evacuation Center sa mga syudad, munisipyo, at probinsya para hindi magamit ang mga eskwelahan tuwing may mga sunog, baha. Nagagamit po ang eskwelahan, naantala ang pag-aaral ng mga bata dahil ginagamit po as evacuation center,” he said. Together with Councilors Dante Apostol, Marissa Abella, Diosdado Mahipus, and Al Ryan Alejandre, Go provided grocery packs, masks, vitamins, and snacks to 4,399 flood victims. The senator also extended shoes, mobile phones, bicycles, watches, and balls for basketball and volleyball to select recipients. Meanwhile, Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health, urged those who have health issues to seek assistance from the Malasakit Center at the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) in Davao City. The Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which Go principally authored and sponsored, brings together various government agencies, including the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the Department of Health (DHOH), the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PHIC), and the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO), under one roof to provide a convenient process for availing medical assistance particularly for poor and indigent patients in public hospitals. There are now 158 Malasakit Centers nationwide which have assisted more than seven million Filipinos, according to DOH data. In SPMC alone, the Malasakit Center there has assisted more than 200,000 patients. On the same day, Go attended the ribbon-cutting of the multipurpose building in Brgy. Lasang and road concretion with drainage canal construction in Brgy. Bunawan, two infrastructure projects he supported the funding of as vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance. He likewise supported the acquisition of multi-purpose vehicles for the community, construction of various multipurpose buildings and local roads, rehabilitation of water systems, drainage systems and flood control structures in different barangays throughout the city, the construction of a 300-bed capacity infectious diseases building for SPMC and the acquisition of ambulances, among others. ### The post Bong Go provides support to flood victims in Davao City 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......»»
Creating safer and more resilient communities
With a thorough understanding of the Philippines’ urban landscape and the risks it is exposed to as one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world, SM Development Corporation has long been a forerunner in the development of sustainable, resilient communities. Recognizing the value of a robust social fabric in building resilience, SMDC recently launched “Ready To Rescue,” a disaster-preparedness training program that aims to educate more Filipinos on the impacts of climate change and the knowledge and skills needed to respond and recover from disasters effectively. In partnership with Philippine Red Cross, City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices, and its Quick Response division, SMDC gathered local government members and community volunteers for a two-day training session in Iloilo and Bacolod. Rene Tamayo, barangay tanod team leader of Brgy. In Bacolod City, Granada was one of the many attendees of Ready to Rescue’s Bacolod leg. When averting the loss of life and damage to property, he said: “I now realize that unpreparedness is not an option.” Meanwhile, Alfredo Talimodao Jr., chairman of Brgy. Granada said as a community leader, he found early warning systems, as well as the timely and effective dissemination of information, to be imperative. “[I plan] to collaborate with local authorities and fellow community members to establish a comprehensive disaster response plan, focusing on improving communication channels and educating others about the importance of preparedness,” said Talimodao Jr. The training introduced concepts such as the DRRM and the Incident Command System, enabling a systematic response to disasters. Demonstrations and practical knowledge were provided on fire, earthquake, flood, and tropical cyclone survival and evacuation, simple first aid for injuries, and essential life support. A Disaster Control Group was also developed during the sessions. Good guys help save lives Did you know that one blood bag can save up to three lives? A reliable and adequate blood supply can make a life-saving difference in medical emergencies, surgeries, and critical treatments. Steadfast, in its partnership with Philippine Red Cross, SMDC is a leading advocate of blood donation. Through their “Good Guys Help Save Lives” initiative, SMDC empowers residents, tenants, employees, and members of neighboring communities to help address the persistent challenge of blood shortages in healthcare facilities through blood donation. Regularly conducted in different SMDC properties and SM offices across the country, the “Good Guys Help Save Lives” initiative raises awareness of the importance and benefits of blood donation and fosters a culture of care and compassion. Shared social responsibility The idea of shared social responsibility is at the core of disaster risk reduction and management. Climate change is a global concern that knows no borders. It affects ecosystems, economies, and livelihoods on a worldwide scale. As such, it demands a collective, “whole-of-society” response from individuals, businesses, and governments. A recipient of Carousell Property Awards’ “Best Developer for Building Sustainable Communities” and Dot Property Philippines Awards’ “Special Recognition for Corporate Social Responsibility,” SMDC seeks to be a partner in nation-building in all aspects — advocating for humanitarian agenda, pushing sustainable development forward, and strengthening public-private partnerships to help make the Philippines more resilient. For one, SMDC and its parent company, SM Prime Holdings Inc., are members of the Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies — a global network of private sector entities led by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction that collaborate to implement the targets of the Sendai Framework. It also co-chairs the National Resilience Council in the Philippines. The post Creating safer and more resilient communities 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 extends assistance to Davao City PWDs
On Wednesday, 12 July, the office of Senator Christopher "Bong" Go provided assistance to persons with disabilities in Barangay Cabantian, Davao City, as part of his ongoing commitment to serving and supporting Filipinos, particularly those belonging to vulnerable sectors such as the PWD community. In his message, Go emphasized the importance of inclusivity, stating that no one should be left behind in the journey toward progress. He asserted the need for all citizens, including PWDs, to have equitable access to government services. “Huwag po kayong magpasalamat sa amin dahil sa totoo lang, kami po ang dapat magpasalamat sa inyo dahil binigyan niyo po kami ng pagkakataon na makapagserbisyo sa inyo. Mahal na mahal ko po kayong lahat,” he said. The senator’s outreach team conducted the relief activity at Brgy. Cabantian covered the court, where they handed out vitamins, masks, shirts, snacks, caps, and balls for basketball and volleyball to 75 beneficiaries. The assistance is in line with Go's broader initiative aimed at enhancing the quality of life of Filipinos, including PWDs. In the 19th Congress, he championed proposed measures to bolster the public health system and expand access to healthcare services. These include Senate Bill No. 198, which aims to provide free annual medical check-ups to all Filipinos, and SBN 190, designed to provide a comprehensive dialysis benefit package for all Philippine Health Insurance Corporation members. Further evidencing his commitment to inclusive education, Go co-authored Republic Act No. 11650 during the 18th Congress. The law seeks to augment the quality of education in the formal learning sector by providing free support services and programs that are specially tailored to the needs of learners with disabilities. As Chair of the Senate Committee on Health, Go also advised those with health issues to get assistance from the Malasakit Center at Southern Philippines Medical Center in the city. Principally authored and sponsored by Go, the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019 provides for the establishment of one-stop shops where indigent patients may conveniently avail medical assistance from various agencies including DSWD, the Department of Health, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. There are now 158 Malasakit Centers that have assisted over seven million Filipinos, according to the DOH. Go also continues to support the construction of additional Super Health Centers nationwide. Through the collective efforts of fellow lawmakers, enough funds have been allocated for the DOH's Health Facilities Enhancement Program to build 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and 322 in 2023. The DOH, which is the lead agency in implementing the program, identifies the strategic locations for the construction of these centers. To help improve the quality of public service delivered to his fellow Davaoeños, Go, as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, likewise supported the construction of various multipurpose buildings and local roads, rehabilitation of water systems, drainage systems, and flood control structures in different barangays throughout the city, the construction of a 300-bed capacity infectious diseases building for the SPMC and the acquisition of ambulances. “Mga kapwa kong Davaoeños, andirito lang po ako para makapagserbisyo sa inyong lahat sa abot nang aking makakaya. Andirito lang po ang inyong Kuya Bong Go na handa pong tumulong sa inyo,” Go reaffirmed. The post Bong Go extends assistance to Davao City PWDs 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......»»
Bong Go checks on evacuees affected by Mayon’s unrest
Sen. Bong Go went to Albay on Thursday, 22 June to provide support to evacuees affected by Mt. Mayon’s unrest, aid indigents, and conduct an inspection of the Super Health Center in Tabaco City. Emphasizing the significance of investing in local health facilities, Go underscored the role of Super Health Centers in enhancing the accessibility of vital healthcare services for the local residents. “Ito pong Super Health Center, isa po ito sa pamamaraan para ilapit natin ang serbisyo medikal sa ating mga kababayan at madi-decongest ang mga ospital dahil hindi na kailangan ng mga buntis na pumunta ng ospital, pwede na po diyan ‘yung mga primary care,” he underscored. The Super Health Center that Go inspected is located in the National Housing Authority resettlement area in Brgy. San Vicente. The housing project was part of the Duterte administration’s efforts to provide housing for Typhoon Rolly victims in 2020. The project was approved in 2021 and started construction in 2022. There are 2361 housing units, built on a 20 hectare LGU property. This strategic location for the Super Health Center was made to provide essential medical services to recovering typhoon victims and their community. It will benefit the more than 2000 housing beneficiaries residing in the area. 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. Aside from Tabaco City, the DOH has identified the cities of Legazpi and Ligao; and the town of Camalig, Malilipot, and Pio Duran as locations for the Super Health Centers in Albay. Super Health Centers shall offer basic medical services under one roof, such as 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 center; and telemedicine, where remote diagnosis and treatment of patients will be done. Go also took the lead in organizing a relief operation at the Barangay San Antonio covered court in the city. The operation assisted 151 evacuees and 250 indigent residents. Go personally oversaw the distribution of essential aid from his office such as grocery packs, snacks, masks, and vitamins to the beneficiaries. Select individuals were also given additional items, including shirts, shoes, mobile phones, watches, and balls for basketball and volleyball. Furthermore, a team from the Department of Social Welfare and Development extended financial assistance to all qualified beneficiaries. More indigents will also be provided aid in the coming days through the initiative of the Office of Sen. Go, the LGU, and DSWD. Go, as Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, also offered to assist those with medical concerns as he encouraged them to seek the services of the Malasakit Center at Bicol Regional Training and Teaching Hospital in Legazpi City. Currently, there are 158 operational Malasakit Centers that have assisted more than seven million Filipinos nationwide, according to the DOH. “Ang Malasakit Center po ay one-stop shop, nasa loob na ho ng hospital ‘yung apat na ahensya ng gobyerno — ‘yung DOH, DSWD, PhilHealth, at PCSO. Tutulungan po kayo na mabayaran ang inyong billing,” said Go, who principally authored and sponsored Republic Act No. 11463 or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019. Meanwhile, to help boost development in Albay and as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, Go has also supported the construction of multipurpose buildings in Ligao City, Oas and Polangui; rehabilitation of several roads in Camalig, Daraga, Jovellar, Legazpi City, Ligao City, Pio Duran and Rapu-Rapu; and rehabilitation of flood control systems in Malilipot, Camalig, Daraga, Guinobatan, Malinao, Manito, Oas and Polangui. On the same day, Go likewise extended his assistance to evacuees in the town of Malilipot. Amid the continued state of unrest of the Mayon Volcano, Go reiterated his call for the passage of his proposed measures that will establish the Department of Disaster Resilience (DDR), as well as mandatory evacuation centers throughout the country. Go stressed that his proposed Senate Bill No. 188, which will establish the DDR, would centralize efforts, streamline coordination, and ensure more swift and effective response to emergencies. “It should be a cabinet-level dahil tuwing mayro'ng sakuna, dapat may point person talaga with clear authority and mandate,” added Go. The creation of the said department, if enacted into law, shall concentrate on three key result areas, namely: disaster risk reduction, disaster preparedness and response, and recovery and building forward better. The Office of Civil Defense has recently voiced its support for the establishment of the DDR. "Nabanggit nga kanina, paano natin pagbabawalan doon ‘eh coordination lang naman tayo, hindi ho ba? So kailangan po ng mas malakas na kapangyarihan ang Office of Civil Defense, maaaring maging departamento o authority; but it needs legislation," OCD Administrator Ariel Nepomuceno said in a recent interview when asked about evacuation efforts in permanent danger zones near active volcanoes. "Things can be better if there will be an independent authority or department, but it’s not that simple – tanggap po namin iyon… We leave it to Congress and we leave it to the Palace, to Malacañang. Meanwhile, kami naman, we are doing our best given the limitations, makakaasa po kayo," the OCD chief said. Meanwhile, Go also highlighted his proposed SBN 193 which seeks to mandate the establishment of permanent, secure, and well-equipped evacuation centers in every municipality, city, and province throughout the Philippines. “Sa pamamagitan ng panukalang ito, hindi rin maaantala ang pag-aaral ng mga bata tuwing ginagamit na pansamantalang tuluyan ang mga eskuwelahan. Mas madali ring makakabangon ang ating mga kababayan kung protektado at komportable sila sa mga dedicated evacuation centers lalo na sa Albay at sa mga malalapit sa aktibong bulkan, pati na rin sa coastlines o ibang danger zones kapag may bagyo o iba pang kalamidad na dumarating,” he said. “Hindi man natin masasabi kung kailan darating ang sakuna, mas mabuti nang laging handa tayo,” he ended. The post Bong Go checks on evacuees affected by Mayon’s unrest appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go aids various sectoral groups in Lanao del Norte
The Office of Senator Bong Go provided aid to struggling residents in Iligan City, Lanao del Norte on Thursday, 15 June. Go's team held the activity at Brgy. Poblacion where they provided snacks, vitamins, shirts, and masks to 350 residents. Some beneficiaries also received a bicycle, cellular phone, new pairs of shoes, and balls for basketball and volleyball. As Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, Go also offered to assist those with health concerns. He encouraged them to seek medical assistance from the city’s Malasakit Center at the Gregorio T. Lluch Memorial Hospital. A Malasakit Center is also available at the Kapatagan Provincial Hospital in Kapatagan town. Signed into law in 2019, the Malasakit Centers Act mandates the establishment of the centers in every Department of Health-run hospital nationwide and in the Philippine General Hospital in Manila where particularly poor and indigent patients can conveniently access medical assistance programs by the government. “Ang Malasakit Center po ay one-stop shop, nasa loob na ho ng hospital ‘yung apat na ahensya ng gobyerno – PhilHealth, PCSO, DOH, DSWD. Tutulungan ho kayo sa inyong billing,” explained Go, who is the principal author and sponsor of the said law. Go then cited that he also continues to support the construction of Super Health Centers nationwide as DOH identifies strategic areas where such centers shall be established. Through the efforts of Go and fellow lawmakers, 307 Super Health Centers were funded in 2022 and another 322 in 2023. Super Health Centers were funded for two barangays in Iligan City. In addition, Super Health Centers will be established in the towns of Munai, Sapad, Baloi, and Lala in Lanao del Norte. Also committed to helping boost the economic sector and strengthen the delivery of public service in the city, Go, as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, has supported the acquisition of medical equipment for GTLMH and the construction of a multipurpose building. Other projects he supported in the province are the construction of farm-to-market roads in Bacolod and Lala; road rehabilitation in Munai; purchase of one ambulance unit in Kapatagan; construction of flood control and drainage structure in Lala; rehabilitation of public markets in Magsaysay; and construction of multipurpose buildings in Kauswagan, Nunungan, Pantao Ragat, Pantar, Salvador, Tangcal and Tubod. The post Bong Go aids various sectoral groups in Lanao del Norte appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go celebrates post-birthday with indigents from Marikina and Rizal
A day after his birthday, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go personally led a distribution activity for impoverished residents from Marikina City and from San Mateo and Rodriguez, Rizal on Thursday, 15 June. “Kahapon ay aking kaarawan. At katulad ni dating pangulong Rodrigo Duterte, walang selebrasyon, walang birthday party, patuloy lang ang pagseserbisyo. Kung kaya pati ngayong araw ay pinili kong mabisita at personal na maghatid ng tulong sa mga kababayan nating mahihirap sa Brgy. Payatas at Commonwealth sa Quezon City. Nagpaabot din tayo ng tulong sa mga mahihirap mula sa Marikina City, at San Mateo at Montalban sa Rizal sa araw ding ito,” he said. Go and his team conducted the relief operation at Marikina City Sports Complex for a total of 3,000 residents. To ensure a more organized distribution, the beneficiaries were split into three groups. Residents from Marikina City and Rodriguez, Rizal were brought to the basketball and tennis courts, respectively, while those from San Mateo gathered in another covered area in the complex. All beneficiaries received grocery packs, masks, snacks, and vitamins from Senator Go’s office while the Department of Social Welfare and Development extended them financial assistance. Additionally, the senator's team provided bicycles, shoes, mobile phones, watches, shirts, and balls for basketball and volleyball to select individuals. In his speech, Go commended the exemplary dedication and tireless efforts of the local officials in Marikina City and in San Mateo and Rodriguez, Rizal. The senator highlighted their unwavering commitment to promoting the welfare and well-being of their constituents and acknowledged their invaluable contributions in fostering progress and development in their respective areas. “Parati namin naririnig na pinapasalamatan kami sa mga proyekto, sa mga tulong. Sa totoo lang po, huwag kayong magpasalamat sa amin. Ako po ay isang probinsiyano lamang (katulad ni) dating pangulong (Rodrigo) Duterte na binigyan niyo ng pagkakataon na makapagserbisyo sa inyo, kaya ako po ang dapat magpasalamat. Maraming-maraming salamat po,” Go expressed. “Hindi ko po sasayangin yung pagkakataon na ibinigay niyo sa amin. Magtatrabaho po ako para sa Pilipino. Sanay po ako sa trabaho. Umaga pa lang, tanghali, hapunan, kahit sa panaginip ay nagtatrabaho po ako dahil yan na ang nakagawian ko noon pa — ang pagtatrabaho at pagseserbisyo,” he underscored. During the event, Go was joined by officials from Marikina City, including 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. Referring to Go, Congresswoman Teodoro cited in a short speech, “Napakaswerte natin ngayong araw na ito dahil kasama natin ang isa sa mga pinakamagagaling na senador sa Pilipinas. Totoo na ang bisyo niya ay magserbisyo dahil kahit birthday niya, actually kahapon ang birthday ni senator, (pero) nagtatrabaho pa rin po siya." “Ang serbisyo ni Senator Bong Go ay lagpas talaga. Hindi na talaga mabilang sa dami ng ginagawa niya. At ngayong araw na ito, para kay Senator Bong Go, kayo ang kaniyang (itinuturing na) birthday gift,” she added. Continuing his message, Go, as Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, encouraged all Filipinos to avail themselves of the medical assistance provided by the 158 Malasakit Centers established across the country. Recognizing the importance of accessible healthcare for every Filipino, particularly poor and indigent patients, Go tirelessly advocates for more Malasakit Centers to ensure that no one is left behind in times of medical emergencies, saying, “Alam n’yo ang Malasakit Center po, batas na ‘yan na isinulong ko noon, pinirmahan ni dating pangulong Duterte. It’s a one-stop shop, nasa loob na ho ng ospital (ang mga ahensyang may medical assistance programs). Hanapin n’yo ‘yung karatulang Malasakit Center.” “At kung kailangan n’yo po ng tulong mula sa opisina ko sa pagpapaopera ninyo, sabihan n’yo lang po ang aking opisina, tutulong po ako sa abot ng aking makakaya pati pamasahe n’yo po, tutulungan ho namin,” he continued. In Marikina City, residents may seek assistance from the Malasakit Center at Amang Rodriguez Memorial Medical Center. Meanwhile, Rizal province has four Malasakit Centers at Casimiro A. Ynares Sr. Memorial Hospital in Rodriguez, Margarito A. Duavit Memorial Hospital in Binangonan; Antipolo City Hospital System Annex IV (Mambugan); and Bagong Cainta Municipal Hospital in Cainta. Go has also been instrumental in promoting the establishment of Super Health Centers to ensure that more Filipinos have access to basic healthcare services. There will be four Super Health Centers in the city of Marikina while there will be one each in Rodriguez and San Mateo. Said centers will offer database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray, ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit. Other services that will be available in Super Health Centers 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. Still in line with his advocacy to bolster the health sector, Go, as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, supported the acquisition of medical equipment for Amang Rodriguez Memorial Medical Center in Marikina City. He also supported the rehabilitation of a multipurpose building in the city. Earlier that day, Go was in Quezon City where he joined Councilor Mikey Belmonte and Mayor Joy Belmonte in the inauguration of two multi-purpose buildings which he supported for funding before as Vice-Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance. He also spearheaded another relief operation for a thousand disadvantaged residents in Quezon City. The post Bong Go celebrates post-birthday with indigents from Marikina and Rizal appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go helps indigents in his visit to Cagayan De Oro
On Friday, 26 May, Senator Bong Go, together with the local government and concerned agencies, personally spearheaded relief efforts to aid struggling residents in Cagayan de Oro City. Held at the Cagayan de Oro City Hall Quadrangle, the senator and his team distributed food packs, vitamins, masks, snacks, and shirts to 2,000 residents. They also gave away a bicycle, cellular phone, pairs of shoes, caps, and balls for basketball and volleyball to select individuals. In his message, Go, who is an adopted son of the city, took the opportunity to express his gratitude to local government officials. Go likewise acknowledged the barangay officials and their commitment to serving their communities. He assured them of his full support and mentioned his filing of the Magna Carta for Barangays bill in recognition of their hard work and to address the challenges they face. The lawmaker continues to push his proposed measure, Senate Bill No. 197 which, if enacted, would provide a Magna Carta for Barangays. Furthermore, Go expressed his appreciation for the efforts of front liners and uniformed personnel such as the police, military, and firefighters, highlighting the crucial role they play in maintaining peace and order and combating criminal activities. As Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, Go then offered additional aid to those with health concerns as he advised them to visit the nearby Malasakit Centers at Northern Mindanao Medical Center and J.R. Borja General Hospital in the city. “Meron na tayong 157 Malasakit Centers sa buong bansa. Ang Malasakit Center ay one-stop shop na kung saan ang apat na ahensya ng gobyerno ay nasa loob ng ospital,” explained Go. Signed into law in 2019, the Malasakit Centers Act, which was principally authored and sponsored by Go, institutionalized the Malasakit Centers program to ensure that particularly poor and indigent patients have convenient access to medical assistance programs offered by the DSWD, DOH, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. Go reiterated his commitment to support the establishment of more Super Health Centers across the country, considering how they can significantly help reduce hospital occupancy rates while bringing basic medical services closer to the grassroots. 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 Misamis Oriental, necessary funds were allocated to construct Super Health Centers in Libertad town and Barangay Balubal in Cagayan de Oro City. Go attended the groundbreaking ceremonies for these centers on the same day. Furthermore, additional Super Health Centers are slated to be built in Gingoog City, Binuangan, Balingasag, Claveria, Initao, and Tagoloan. Cagayan de Oro City will have a total of six Super Health Centers in different barangays. “Sa Cagayan (de Oro City), para manganak, magpagamot, yung basic lang na check-up, pwede na dito… Pwede rin i-expand ito. Pwedeng palakihin ng LGUs. Pwede nilang lagyan ng dialysis machine dahil ituturn over na ito sa LGU,” Go said. On the same day, Go distributed assistance to the poor residents in Libertad town, and another group of 300 individuals in Cagayan de Oro City, which came shortly after his attendance at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Super Health Center in Brgy. Balubal. Last 23 March, Senator Go was hailed by the local government of Cagayan de Oro City as an adopted son, acknowledging his notable contributions, not only to the city but to the nation as a whole. By virtue of Sangguniang Panglungsod Resolution No. 14480 presented by City Mayor Rolando “Klarex” Uy, the adoption of Go as the son of the city was in recognition of his unwavering efforts in serving the city and its constituents. To help further improve the city’s public service delivery, Go, as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, supported several infrastructure projects, including the construction of a drainage system and flood control structures along the Iponan River, acquisition of several ambulance units and fire and dump trucks, and the construction of a three-story multipurpose building in Barangay 33. He was also instrumental in the funding for flood control projects in Magsaysay, Medina, and Gingoog City; the construction of multipurpose buildings in Initao, Magsaysay, and Gingoog City; rehabilitation of local roads in Baliangao, Balingasag, Balingoan, Initao, Lagonglong, Laguindingan, Libertad, Lugait, Magsaysay, Manticao and El Salvador City; and construction of water systems in Balingasag and Jasaan. The post Bong Go helps indigents in his visit to Cagayan De Oro appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go’s office conducts relief activity for fire victims in Pasig City
The Office of Senator Bong Go visited Barangays Sta. Lucia and Kalawaan in Pasig City on Friday, 14 April, to provide assistance to fire victims. On the same day, Go personally aided fire victims from Brgy. Pinagbuhatan in the city. In a video message, Go encouraged the beneficiaries to make use of the services provided by Malasakit Centers across the country in the event of medical emergencies or other medical-related concerns. In Pasig City, the Malasakit Center is located at Rizal Medical Center. The Malasakit Center is a one-stop shop where particularly poor and indigent patients can conveniently apply for medical assistance from the relevant agencies. Go is the principal author and sponsor of the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019. To date, the Malasakit Centers program has assisted over seven million Filipinos nationwide, according to the Department of Health. The senator's team provided grocery packs, vitamins, masks, meals, and shirts to 64 affected families at the Ismar Gym in Kalawaan. They also gave away bikes, shoes, and balls for volleyball and basketball to select individuals. Meanwhile, the Department of Social Welfare and Development provided the fire victims with financial assistance to help hasten their recovery. “Importante po walang nasaktan, wala pong namatay. Ang pera po’y kikitain natin subalit ‘yung perang kikitain ay hindi po nabibili ang buhay. A lost life is a lost life forever kaya mag-ingat po kayo. Mga kababayan ko, magtulungan ho tayo. Pilipino tayo, kilala tayong nagtutulungan. At huwag ho kayong mawalan ng pag-asa... ang importante po buhay tayo,” he encouraged. Meanwhile, Go, who chairs the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, has reiterated his commitment to supporting the establishment of additional Super Health Centers throughout the Philippines. Through the collective efforts of fellow lawmakers, enough funds have been allocated for the DOH's Health Facilities Enhancement Program to build 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and 322 in 2023. The DOH, which is the lead agency in implementing the program, identifies the strategic locations for the construction of these centers. Super Health Centers provide a range of services, including database management, outpatient care, birthing services, isolation facilities, and diagnostic services such as X-ray and ultrasound scans. They also have on-site pharmacies and ambulatory surgical units. As Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance and an advocate for quality healthcare services, Go likewise supported several initiatives for the Rizal Medical Center, such as the hospital’s improvement and rehabilitation, construction of a seven-story building inside the facility, and acquisition of medical equipment. Finally, the senator thanked all of the local officials who stepped up and exerted great efforts to help the affected families after the fire incident. “Salamat po mga kababayan ko, mga taga-Pasig, ingat po kayo. Nandito lang po ang inyong Kuya Bong Go na handang tumulong po sa inyo,” Go expressed. The post Bong Go’s office conducts relief activity for fire victims in Pasig City appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Calbayog coast guard sub-station will soon rise in Calbayog City
Samar I establishes a coast guard sub-station building located in Brgy. Aguit-itan, Calbayog City, Samar with a contract amount of P11.5 million drawn from the General Appropriations Act (GAA) of 2022......»»
Cebu City OBO denies for now request of Apas developer to lift suspension
CEBU CITY, Philippines — The Cebu City Office of the Building Official (OBO) will not yet lift the suspension order of a development in Barangay Apas where a worker died and another got injured in an accident last Saturday, May 22, 2021. Read: 1 killed, another injured in project site ‘cave in’ in Brgy Apas […] The post Cebu City OBO denies for now request of Apas developer to lift suspension appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Police say construction firm non cooperative in investigation of Brgy. Apas incident
CEBU CITY, Philippines — The Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) said that the firm behind the construction site in Barangay Apas, where an accident happened and killed one worker, has not cooperated with their investigation as of Monday afternoon, May 24, 2021. Police and building officials here said there will be a composite investigation on […] The post Police say construction firm non cooperative in investigation of Brgy. Apas incident appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Pa-birthday ni Angel, community pantry sa QC: Bilang pagpupugay sa bayanihan ng mga Filipino!
KAARAWAN ni Angel Locsin bukas, Abril 23, at bilang bahagi ng kanyang selebrasyon ay magtatayo rin siya ng community pantry para sa mga kinakapos nating mga kababayan. Itatayo ito ni Angel sa Titanium Commercial Building, 36 Holy Spirit Drive, corner Don Matias St., Don Antonio Heights, Brgy. Holy Spirit, Quezon City mula 10 a.m. hanggang […] The post Pa-birthday ni Angel, community pantry sa QC: Bilang pagpupugay sa bayanihan ng mga Filipino! appeared first on Bandera......»»