Cebu City to provide additional budget for NOAH Complex
CEBU CITY, Philippines —Cebu City will be providing an additional budget for the New Oasis for Adaptation and a Home (NOAH) Complex, the biggest isolation center in the city for asymptomatic Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients. This after series of posts online revealed the state of the isolation facility, which patients claim is not conducive […] The post Cebu City to provide additional budget for NOAH Complex appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
QC to strengthen bike lanes after ex-cop road-rage incident
Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte on Monday said the city government will further strengthen the safety of bike lanes and deploy more bike patrols to protect cyclists and maintain safer roads. This was after a cyclist was assaulted by an ex-policeman in an incident that was recorded by a netizen, becoming viral on social media. The ex-cop, who pulled a gun on the cyclist, was driving his vehicle on the bike lane. Belmonte stressed that City Ordinance SP-2988 S-2020 or the Ordinance promoting Safe Cycling and Active Transport penalizes motorists obstructing cycling lanes or walking paths. Section 8.2.2 of City Ordinance SP-2636 S-2017 or QC Road Safety Code states that “no driver shall permit his/her vehicle to block any portion of the bicycle lane. At no time shall any vehicle use, straddle, or obstruct the designated bike lane.” "We would like to reassure the cycling community and all our citizens for that matter that the city is willing to exhaust all means to demonstrate to them that we will act in their interest and in the pursuit of justice," the mayor said. Quezon City Rep. Marvin Rillo (Dist. IV) said another P500 million in fresh funding in 2024 will be of great help to the mayor in this regard. The funds, according to Rillo, will be used for upgrading bicycle lanes and pedestrian walkways under the national government’s Active Transport Program in metropolitan areas. “To further stimulate human-powered mobility, such as cycling and walking, there is an additional budget of P500 million for the development of active transport infrastructure and facilities in 2024,” Rillo, a member of the House committee on appropriations, said. “We are all for active transport, which lessens harmful motor vehicle emissions, promotes cleaner air and improves individual and community health,” Rillo, also vice chairperson of the House committee on Metro Manila development, said. The solon explained that the P500 million for the ATP in 2024 is lodged in the budget of the Department of Transportation. The amount is on top of the P705 million earmarked for the ATP this year and the P2 billion funding for the program in 2022. Rillo expressed confidence that the additional government spending for the ATP would protect a greater number of Filipinos who use bicycles as an alternative mode of mobility. As of June this year, the ATP has so far built 564 kilometers of bicycle lanes throughout Metro Manila, Metro Cebu and Metro Davao. The DOTr earlier said it expects the country’s bicycle lane network to reach 2,400 kilometers by 2028. “In other countries where governments are spending more to develop bicycle lanes, they’ve actually seen a five-fold increase in the number of people using bicycles,” Rillo said. The ATP bankrolls the construction of protected, hazard-free bicycle lanes, procurement of bike racks, improvement of end-of-trip cycling infrastructure and the upgrading of pop-up bike lanes into permanent bike lanes. The program also funds the development of pedestrian pathways and crossings designed to accommodate persons with disability, senior citizens, pregnant women, parents with children in strollers and tourists with luggage. Rillo said it will also finance the creation of urban shade trees for the benefit of cyclists, commuters and pedestrians. The post QC to strengthen bike lanes after ex-cop road-rage incident appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bring public health services closer
“Health is the greatest of human blessings,” according to Hippocrates, father of Modern Medicine. That is why we continue to make significant strides in improving our health system. The latest of which is the signing into law of the Regional Specialty Centers Act. As the principal sponsor and one of the authors of this measure, I am grateful to President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., for approving and prioritizing this legislation which will help bring specialized medical care closer to Filipinos in various regions, and hopefully to the most vulnerable groups in grassroots communities. As we aim to make public health more accessible, we must continue such efforts to ensure all Filipinos get the healthcare they deserve. In line with this, the Malasakit Centers we initiated in 2018 have already provided financial medical assistance to more than seven million patients so far. There are 158 Malasakit centers established all over the country through the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which I principally authored and sponsored in the Senate. I have also continuously pushed for the establishment of Super Health Centers, which are medium versions of a polyclinic and improved versions of the rural health unit, to make healthcare more accessible to Filipinos even in remote areas. These centers, funded with the help of my fellow legislators and primarily implemented by the Department of Health, shall provide primary health care services in communities that also include consultation, diagnosis, and early detection of diseases. As chair of the Senate Health Committee, I must emphasize the need to bring public health services closer to the people who need them the most. The enactment of the Regional Specialty Centers Act, along with the continuing operations of Malasakit Centers and the establishment of more Super Health Centers nationwide will hopefully bridge this gap and further promote the health and well-being of Filipinos no matter where they are in the country. As a legislator and public servant, I will continue to help improve public service delivery at the grassroots to the best of my capacity so that no Filipino is neglected when it comes to availing government services they need. That is why aside from the health initiatives mentioned above, I also continue to visit communities to deliver assistance, listen to their concerns, and provide solutions to their daily struggles. We were in Laguna on August 25 to inspect the Siniloan Sports Complex which was funded through our efforts as part of our goal as chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports to promote grassroots sports development and divert our youth from harmful vices like illegal drugs. We then inspected the Isolation Facility of the Infirmary Hospital which we supported during the Duterte administration. We also led the distribution of aid to 500 impoverished residents of Siniloan together with Vice Governor Karen Agapay, Mayor Patrick Go, Vice Mayor Carla Valderrama, and other local officials. Last weekend, I also joined fellow officials and basketball enthusiasts alike in supporting Gilas Pilipinas during the 2023 FIBA World Cup. I commend everyone who took part in ensuring the successful hosting of the FIBA World Cup here in the Philippines. We were invited as a guest speaker on 24 August at the Gender and Development Activity organized by the Provincial Council of Occidental Mindoro. We support these kinds of discussions that aim to promote equal and gender-sensitive leadership. On 23 August, I received the prestigious Apostle Arsenio Ferriol Award of Excellence for Public Service and Governance. I want to express my sincere gratitude to the Pentecostal Missionary Church of Christ (4th Watch) for this very prestigious recognition. With or without an award, I will continue my mission to serve fellow Filipinos, knowing very well that service to the people is service to God. Aside from the awarding ceremony, I also joined them yesterday for their 50th Golden Church Anniversary celebration in New Clark City, Tarlac. I also visited Navotas City on 22 August, together with Mayor John Rey Tiangco and Vice Mayor Tito Sanchez to help 1,000 senior citizens, PWDs, and indigents. We also provided additional support to 1,328 recovering fire victims who were given aid from the National Housing Authority to buy housing materials through their Emergency Housing Assistance Program that we initiated before and continue to support its implementation now. We were also instrumental in the construction of nine public school buildings in Navotas City, some of which we were able to inspect during our visit. My office also continues to assist Filipinos affected by calamities. Among those assisted were typhoon victims in various towns in Cagayan — 500 in Gonzaga; 500 residents in Aparri; 500 in Allacapan; 500 in Pamplona; 500 in Ballesteros; and 500 more in Caoayan, Ilocos Sur. More support was also provided for 35 indigents from different towns of Cotabato Province plus 110 sectoral members in Libungan town; three fire victims of Brgy. Peñaplata in Samal Island; 1,000 residents of Sibalom and almost 250 in Tobias Fornier in Antique; 1,000 beneficiaries in Polomolok, South Cotabato; 66 residents of Malolos Bulacan; 31 residents of General Tinio and 140 more in Gapan, Nueva Ecija. We also extended livelihood support to 14 indigents in Cauayan, Negros Occidental; three farmers in San Lorenzo, Guimaras; and 52 residents of Brgy. Tisa, Cebu City who were previously victims of a fire incident. They were also provided aid through DTI’s Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginhawa (PPG) program, which I pushed for before and continue to support now to boost the livelihood of those affected by various crises. Furthermore, I am also thankful to the President for signing the following into law: Republic Act No. 11961, which I co-authored, amending the National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009, and mandates the creation of a Philippine Registry of Heritage; RA 11958, which I co-authored, that amends RA 6948 to rationalize the disability pension provided to military veterans; and the One Town, One Product Philippines Program, which I authored and co-sponsored, to support the growth of the country’s micro, small, and medium enterprises. While we have accomplished a lot in the past few days in helping those in need and pushing for policies that would uplift the lives of fellow Filipinos, our work must not stop as long as there are more of our kababayans who rely on us for support. As public servants, let us continue to bring the government and its services closer to the people while working together so that no one is left behind toward recovery and progress. 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Bong Go throws support to grassroots sports development programs
Championing grassroots sports development initiatives in various local communities, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go personally witnessed the opening of the inter-barangay basketball league in Cortes, Bohol on Monday, July 17. The basketball league is in partnership with the Philippine Sports Commission and the local government led by Mayor Lynn Iven Lim. Addressing the crowd gathered at the ampitheater, the chair of the Senate Committee on Sports underscored the significance of sports in promoting physical fitness and diverting the youth's attention away from illegal vices, including drug abuse. As an ardent supporter of grassroots sports development, Go recognized the pivotal role that athletics play in nurturing a healthier and more productive citizenry. “Sporting events, such as the basketball league in Cortes, not only provide an avenue for physical exercise but also encourage teamwork, discipline, and camaraderie among participants,” he said. Go emphasized the importance of promoting sports activities as a means to promote a drug-free community. He highlighted the prevalence of illegal drugs in various communities and expressed his commitment to combat this menace by promoting productive activities that inspire individuals, especially the youth, to stay away from harmful substances and become productive members of society. "Kaya ganun na lang po ang galit ni (dating) pangulong Duterte sa iligal na droga. Kapag pumasok po ang droga, papasok po ang kriminalidad, papasok po ang korapsyon. Mabibili po 'yan. 'Yan po ang kinatatakutan natin dito, kapag bumalik po ang iligal na droga, hindi na po magiging safe maglakad ang mga anak natin," said Go. “Kaya isa rin po sa pamamaraan na ine-engganyo ko po ang kabataan to get into sports, stay away from drugs. Ilayo po natin ang mga kabataan sa droga through sports. Get into sports, stay away from drugs,” he added. The event was also attended by Congressman Edgardo Chatto, Vice Governor Dionisio Victor Balite, Tagbiliran City Mayor Jane Yap, Dauis Vice Mayor Miriam Sumaylo, and Cortes Councilor Ira Lim, among others. "Senator, maraming salamat sa iyong panahon, alam ko kung gaano ka ka-busy.... On behalf ng mga mamamayan dito sa Cortes, maraming salamat mula sa aming puso sa lahat ng iyong tulong sa amin dito.... Ang game changer natin na makapagbigay ng maayos na pag-unlad, especially sa ating mga kababayan, andito ang biggest regional hospital at… ang tumulong sa pagpasa ng batas para maisakatuparan ito ay si Senator Bong Go," Mayor Lim said. Mayor Lim likewise thanked Go for the projects he supported in Cortes as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, including the acquisition of a multipurpose vehicle, the construction of a multipurpose building, and the improvement of the municipal public park and hall grounds. Go also underscored the importance of creating opportunities for young athletes, including scholarships, training programs, incentives and continuing investments in local sports facilities. It can be recalled that in 2021, Go visited Bataan and participated in the presentation and signing of the Deed of Donation for the land where the Philippine Sports Training Center (PSTC) was proposed to be constructed in Bagac. The creation of the PSTC aims to promote sports in the country and achieve excellence in international sports competitions. Meanwhile, Go authored and co-sponsored the measure that became Republic Act No. 11470, establishing the National Academy of Sports (NAS) in 2020. NAS is a government-run educational institution that offers quality secondary education with a special curriculum on sports for gifted young Filipinos who want to enhance their physical and mental capabilities in sports. Go also filed Senate Bill No. 423 or the proposed Philippine National Games (PNG) Act of 2022. The measure aims to institutionalize “a truly comprehensive national grassroots sports program, which will harness the vast potential of the citizenry in discovering and developing champion athletes who could excel in international sports competition, thus giving the country pride and international goodwill and addressing the long-standing problems of Philippine sports in general.” “As chair of the Senate Committee on Sports, I am one with President (Ferdinand) Marcos Jr. in highlighting the importance of sports in nation-building. I reiterate my firm commitment to always look after the welfare of our athletes and to push for long-term and grassroots sports development,” Go previously said. It can also be recalled that Go played a crucial role in pushing for additional funding for sports development in the country. He effectively advocated for a boost in the 2023 budget of the PSC, specifically designating an extra one billion pesos to aid athletes, both at the international level and in grassroots initiatives. On the same day, Go visited several infrastructure projects he supported the funding of as vice chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, including the ongoing construction of Governor Celestino Gallares Multi-specialty Medical Complex in Cortes, and the Cortes Municipal Park and Disaster Risk Reduction and Management building, both in Cortes town. He also led a distribution activity for athletes, coaches, and barangay workers in Cortes town. After Cortes, Go went to Tagbilaran City to inspect the city’s Super Health Center and the Malasakit Center at Gov. Celestino Gallares Memorial Hospital. Lastly, the senator attended the 73rd Commencement Exercise of Bohol Institute of Technology International College System. 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Bong Go provides additional support to TESDA graduates in Cebu
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go extended his congratulations to the graduates of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in Argao, Cebu, and provided them with additional support through his team. In his video message during the ceremonies held on 25 May, Go urged the graduates to employ their newly acquired skills to bolster the growth of the country's economy and help uplift their communities. “We need more skilled workers in various industries, and I encourage you, graduates, to use your newly acquired skills to help our country's economy grow. You are now equipped to contribute to our society and make a positive impact in your respective communities,” said Go. Go, likewise, extended his commendation to the TESDA instructors, trainers, and staff members who played an instrumental role in the success of the graduates. “Kung hindi dahil sa kanilang dedikasyon, hindi magiging posible ang programang ito,” he said. Following the ceremony, his team distributed assistance to the graduates in a relief activity held at the Argao Sports Complex. A total of 373 graduates received grocery packs, snacks, and shirts. As Chair of the Senate Committee on Health, Go also offered additional help to those in need of medical care. He encouraged Cebuanos to avail of medical assistance from the Malasakit Centers located at the Cebu City Medical Center, St. Anthony Mother & Child Hospital, and Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center, both in Cebu City; Cebu South Medical Center in Talisay City; Eversley Childs Sanitarium Hospital in Mandaue City; Lapu-Lapu District Hospital; and Cebu Provincial Hospital in Carcar City. Go principally authored and sponsored the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019. There are now 157 Malasakit Centers nationwide which have assisted over seven million Filipinos, according to the DOH. As Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, Go likewise supported the construction of multipurpose buildings in Barili, Cordova, Ginatilan, Pilar, Tabogon, and Talisay City; improvement of existing roads in Alcantara, Alcoy, Alegria, Asturias, Balamban, Boljoon, Borbon, Carmen, Madrilejos, Malabuyoc, Minglanilla, Moalboal, Pinamungajan, Sibonga, Sogod, Tabogon, Tabuelan, Carcar City, and Naga City; improvement of flood mitigation structures in Catmon and Tuburan; installation of street lights in Asturias, Compostela, and Daanbantayan; and acquisition of ambulance units for Madridejos and Naga City. Ending his message, Go expressed his utmost gratitude to TESDA for its pivotal role in providing invaluable skills and competencies to Filipinos. “Habang ipinagdiriwang natin ang inyong graduation, lubos din akong nagpapasalamat sa TESDA dahil matagumpay ito na nakapagbibigay ng mga kakayahan at kasanayan sa ating mga kababayan,” he said. The senator acknowledged that TESDA's role has empowered countless individuals with job and livelihood opportunities, ultimately leading them toward a brighter and more prosperous future. Earlier, Go also filed Senate Bill No. 2115, which aims to institutionalize a technical-vocational education and training and livelihood program designed specifically for rehabilitated drug dependents. The post Bong Go provides additional support to TESDA graduates in Cebu appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Aboitiz sets P800M West Cebu Estate industrial expansion
BALAMBAN, Cebu — Aboitiz InfraCapital, the infrastructure arm of the Aboitiz Group, is spending P800 million this year to bankroll the 39-hectare industrial expansion of the West Cebu Estate. Rafael Fernandez de Mesa, President of Cebu Industrial Park Developers, Inc. and Head of Aboitiz InfraCapital Economic Estates, said the company will mobilize the budget to kick off the estate’s transformation into a critical economic hub in the region. “Construction is ongoing. This year, we've earmarked about P800 million to develop this and we're now in the process of pinpointing additional investment that we’ll be pouring in over the next few years to develop a commercial district, which will include the neighborhood commercial,” De Mesa said in an interview with reporters on Wednesday. “We're very excited about this ongoing expansion This will diversify our locator mix, which will now include light to medium manufacturing,“ he added. The industrial expansion is part of the first phase of the planned expansion in West Cebu Estate. It is scheduled to be completed by next year. The next phase includes the establishment of the so-called West Cebu Exchange — a commercial complex that will host food outlets, retail shops, basic services, a supermarket, and a transportation hub. AboitizInfra eyes finishing the final phase of the expansion by 2025. The expansion plans, according to the company, will also generate 16,000 new jobs on top of the current 14,000 work population in the area. Formerly West Cebu Industrial Park, the West Cebu Estate, a 540-hectare mixed-use development, is a joint venture between the Aboitiz Group and Tsuneishi Holdings of Japan. It is home to some of the world’s leading maritime companies such as Australia’s Austal Philippines. It also houses the 283-hectare Philippine Economic Zone Authority registered zone tagged as the “Shipbuilding Capital of the Philippines.” The Aboitiz Group and its partners celebrated the 30th anniversary of West Cebu Estate on Wednesday, 25 May. "As we go along our journey of becoming the Philippines' first tech glomerate, we remain committed to expanding and transforming West Cebu Estate, and other economic estates, into future-ready, master-planned developments by leveraging on the synergies and capabilities with the bigger Aboitiz Group,” Cosette V. Canilao, Aboitiz InfraCapital President and Chief Executive Officer, said. The post Aboitiz sets P800M West Cebu Estate industrial expansion appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bridging healthcare gap
While the government has consistently strived to improve medical access, the reality remains that access to hospitals providing specialized healthcare services is still limited. Almost all specialty hospitals are located in Metro Manila. We have here the Philippine Heart Center, Lung Center of the Philippines, National Kidney and Transplant Institute, and the Philippine Children’s Medical Center, among others. As these specialty hospitals are some of the best in our country, many of our Filipinos from the provinces who suffer from serious diseases are constrained to travel to Manila just to ensure that they receive quality, affordable and specialized healthcare services necessary for their conditions. Having to worry over transportation and accommodation expenses on top of the already burdensome medical costs is simply too much, especially for our poor Filipinos who can barely earn enough for their daily needs. As I visited many disadvantaged communities nationwide, scores of our kababayans sought me out not only for medical assistance but also for help with their transportation expenses going to Manila, where the only hospitals that can address their health needs are located. The glaring need to bring these specialized medical services closer to our people in the provinces encourages me to continue advocating for a measure that will mandate the establishment of regional specialty centers nationwide. It is high time that we unburden our fellow Filipinos of unnecessary long travels and additional expenses just to get these services needed to save their lives. On 17 May, I sponsored Senate Bill 2212, which seeks to mandate the Department of Health to establish specialty centers in existing DoH hospitals in different regions within five years, rather than constructing entirely new specialty hospitals — a cost-efficient, faster and practical solution to address the issue. The proposal also aligns with the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., which includes the establishment of specialty centers as part of the health-related legislative agenda of the administration. Moreover, if enacted into law, the DoH will be required to allocate capital outlay investments and work closely with the Department of Budget and Management to develop staffing patterns and standards for the specialty centers, securing positions for healthcare workers serving in these facilities. Particular emphasis will be placed on establishing heart, lung, and kidney centers that replicate the capabilities of the National Specialty Centers in Metro Manila. This is also a way to decongest our existing specialty hospitals. For instance, the establishment of mental health centers in various DoH hospitals would help decongest the National Center for Mental Health in Mandaluyong City. As chair of the Senate Committee on Health, I believe that physical, emotional, and mental health are all equally important, and I will continue to support measures that would protect and promote the different aspects of health as a whole. Thus, on the same day, I also co-sponsored the proposed Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act filed by Senator Win Gatchalian. If said bill is passed into law, a Care Center in basic education schools will be established. This will not only benefit the students but also the teaching and non-teaching personnel. Previously, I likewise filed SBN 1786 which aims to mandate Public Higher Education Institutions to establish Mental Health Offices in their respective campuses. Meanwhile, together with my team, I was in Cagayan on 18 May to join in the Sarakat Festival, attend the inauguration of the Super Health Center, and provide aid to 1,500 indigents in the town of Santa Praxedes, where I was honored to be its adopted son. We then headed to Lal-lo town where I witnessed the groundbreaking of another Super Health Center and also led another relief operation for 1,500 more struggling residents in the town. The following day, I visited Jordan, Guimaras, where I attended a volleyball tournament as part of the Manggahan Festival of the province and personally checked on the operations of the Malasakit Center at Dr. Catalino Gallego Nava Provincial Hospital. We also aided 217 patients and 512 frontliners in the hospital while the Department of Social Welfare and Development assisted 118 qualified patients. Later that day, we visited Buenavista, Guimaras where I led the groundbreaking of the town’s Super Health Center, spearheaded a relief operation for 1,462 indigents, and visited local infrastructure initiatives we earlier supported during the Duterte administration such as the Buenavista Wharf and seawall. Last week, my outreach teams also helped many of our fellow Filipinos in need, including 50 indigents in Libertad, 50 in Salay, and 1,735 in Lagonglong, Misamis Oriental; 153 in Agusan del Norte; 255 in Belison, Antique; 419 in Laurel, Batangas; 150 in Quezon City; 1,550 in Manila City; 666 in Limay, Bataan; 108 in Malolos City, Bulacan; 233 in Maria Aurora in Aurora; 366 in Kalawit and 333 in Sibuco, Zamboanga del Norte; and 1,912 families affected by armed conflict in Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur. Fire-hit households, including 21 in Lapu-Lapu City, 99 in Mandaue City, and 171 in Cebu City in the province of Cebu; and six in Angeles City, Pampanga were also assisted. Aside from pushing for the establishment of regional specialty centers, I continue to support our Malasakit Centers and Super Health Centers to provide more accessible medical assistance programs and basic health services, respectively, to more of our fellow Filipinos. It is my hope that, with the support of our fellow workers in the government, we can continue bringing medical services closer to the people, particularly the economically disadvantaged and those residing in far-flung areas, to help address the urgent need to bridge the healthcare gap across the country. After all, it is enshrined in our Constitution, as a matter of state policy, that “the State shall protect and promote the right to health of the people” and that “the State shall adopt an integrated and comprehensive approach to health development which shall endeavor to make essential goods, health and other social services available to all the people at affordable cost.” As elected representatives of the Filipino people, it is our solemn duty to realize these state policies. These programs and measures will not only protect and promote such rights but will make this a living testament to our collective desire to help provide a more comfortable life for Filipinos. 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Go inspects Super Health Center in Dipolog City
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go vowed to espouse advocacies that will improve the country's healthcare system and bring public health services closer to those in need. The Senate Committee on Health and Demography head made that statement as he conducted an inspection of the Super Health Center in Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte on Saturday, 15 April. Go previously attended the groundbreaking ceremony for the Super Health Center on 3 March. “Napansin ko noon, sa napakalayong lugar, walang access sa ospital yung mga buntis at manganganak na lang sa jeep at tricycle… sa layo ng biyahe, hindi na umaabot sa ospital,” said Go. “Kaya ngayon po, magkakaroon na po ng Super Health Center sa kanilang komunidad. Para ito sa mga kababayan natin sa malalayong lugar, makakatulong po ito lalo na sa mga mahihirap,” he added. The Super Health Center in Dipolog City is set to provide basic health services such as database management, out-patient services, birthing facilities, isolation facilities, diagnostic (laboratory, x-ray, and ultrasound) services, pharmacy services, and an ambulatory surgical unit. The center will also offer specialized services such as eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) care, oncology centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation centers, and telemedicine services, which allow remote diagnosis and treatment of patients. Through the collective efforts of fellow lawmakers, sufficient funds had been allocated under the Health Facilities Enhancement Program of the Department of Health 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 the province of Zamboanga del Norte, necessary funds have been allocated for the DOH to construct other Super Health Centers in Dapitan City, and in the towns of Kalawit, Sindangan, and Sirawai. Additionally, two more centers are planned to be constructed in other areas in Zamboanga del Norte. Apart from the Super Health Center, Go was also present for the turnover of three brand-new ambulance units to Dipolog City, which were a much-needed addition to the city's fleet. Moreover, Go was present for the inspection of the Oval Track Project in the city, which is another groundbreaking initiative aimed at providing Filipinos with a state-of-the-art facility for sports and recreation. Go supported the funding for these projects as the Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance. Aside from the aforementioned projects, the senator has likewise supported numerous initiatives to promote the development of the province, such as the construction of multipurpose buildings in Dapitan City, Jose Dalman, Mutia, President Manuel A. Roxas, Salug, Siocon, and Sindangan; acquisition of ambulance units for Mutia and trucks for Katipunan and Mutia; and rehabilitation of roads in Dapitan City, Godod, Jose Dalman, Liloy, Kalawit Labason, La Libertad, Sergio Osmeña and Salug. Meanwhile, Go and his team also distributed assistance to 1,000 indigents the same day. Held at the Dipolog Sports Complex, Go personally led the distribution of grocery packs, vitamins, masks, snacks, and shirts to the residents. Shoes and balls for basketball and volleyball were also provided to select beneficiaries. The Department of Social Welfare and Development then provided financial assistance to the qualified beneficiaries. The senator also advised residents to seek the services of the Malasakit Centers at the Jose Rizal Memorial Hospital in Dapitan City or at the Zamboanga del Norte Medical Center (ZNMC) in Dipolog City which he visited the same day to check on the center’s operations and assist patients and hospital personnel. The DSWD also provided additional assistance to qualified patients in ZNMC during the visit. The Malasakit Center is a one-stop shop which aims to reduce the hospital bills of particularly poor and indigent patients to the lowest amount possible. It brings together the national agencies which offer medical assistance, namely, the DSWD, DOH, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. The program was institutionalized under Republic Act No. 11463, also known as the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which Go principally authored and sponsored. The program has assisted more than seven million patients nationwide since its launch in 2018, according to the DOH. “Natutuwa ako na mayroon na tayong 157 na Malasakit Centers sa buong bansa. Hindi pumipili ang Malasakit Center ng tutulungan. Binabalik lang ang pera niyo sa inyo sa pamamagitan ng maayos at maaasahang serbisyo. Kaya sa mga poor at indigent patients diyan, puntahan niyo na lang ang Malasakit Center dahil para talaga sa inyo ito,” reassured Go. Go acknowledged the efforts of local officials in improving public service delivery in their localities, specifically mentioning Dipolog City Mayor Darel Dexter Uy, 2nd District Board Member Michael Documento, and 3rd District Board Member Conkie Bugtuan, among others. On the same day, Go also distributed aid to fire victims in Cebu City before flying to Dipolog City. The post Go inspects Super Health Center in Dipolog City appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
SB-1 of Cebu City increases by P22 million
CEBU CITY, Philippines — The proposed Supplemental Budget No. 1 (SB-1) of Mayor Edgardo Labella to the City Council has been increased slightly from P4.4 billion to P4.5 billion to accommodate additional expenses. This after the City Council committee on budget and finance concluded their budget hearings for the SB-1 on Friday, July 23, 2021. […] The post SB-1 of Cebu City increases by P22 million appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
NOAH expands isolation capacity to 450
CEBU CITY, Philippines — The New Oasis for Adaptation and a Home (NOAH) Complex at the South Road Properties (SRP) in Cebu City will be increasing its capacity to accept Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients. The Department of Health has approved the expansion on January 5, 2021, allowing the use of 90 additional beds from […] The post NOAH expands isolation capacity to 450 appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Labella to Council: Reconsider P40 million budget for frontliners
CEBU CITY, Philippines — Cebu City Mayor Edgardo Labella is asking the City Council to reconsider the P40 million budget allocated for food packs for the frontliners handling quarantine centers in the city. This after the council turned down on December 2, 2020 the additional budget the executive department is asking to feed the medical […] The post Labella to Council: Reconsider P40 million budget for frontliners appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Minglanilla ends 22-year title drought, wins Gullas Cup in dominating fashion vs. Talisay
CEBU CITY, Philippines — Abante Minglanilla hoisted the Rhea Gullas Cup 2024 First District of Cebu Inter-City/Municipality Basketball Tournament title after routing the visiting Talisay Aksyon Agad, 72-58, on Saturday evening, March 23, at the Minglanilla Sports Complex. Minglanilla, also known as the Archangels, beat Talisay in their do-or-die Game 3 of the finals, and.....»»
Minglanilla’s ‘6th man’ crucial for Gullas Cup finals— Velez
CEBU CITY, Philippines— Jesus “Boyet” Velez, the head coach of Abante Minglanilla, admitted that their sixth man, their home crowd, would be a massive factor for the winner-take-all Game 3 of the Rhea Gullas Cup First District of Cebu Inter-City/Municipality Basketball Tournament Best-of-Three finals on Saturday, March 23, at the Minglanilla Sports Complex. Talisay Aksyon.....»»
Rhea Gullas Cup Finals: Talisay forces rubber match in thrilling win vs. Minglanilla
CEBU CITY, Philippines — As expected, Talisay Aksyon Agad successfully forced a rubber match against Abante Minglanilla in a nail biting 80-78 win in Game 2 of the Rhea Gullas Cup First District of Cebu Inter-City/Municipality Basketball Tournament Best-of-Three finals held Saturday night, March 16, at the Talisay Sports Complex. The win tied the series.....»»
Rhea Gullas Cup: Minglanilla braces for pivotal finals Game 2 versus Talisay
CEBU CITY, Philippines — Abante Minglanilla braces for Talisay Aksyon Agad’s retaliation in Game 2 of their Best-of-Three finals series in the Rhea Gullas Cup First District of Cebu Inter-City/Municipality Basketball Tournament scheduled on March 16, at the Talisay City Sports Complex. Minglanilla’s head coach, Boyet Velez, already told his boys to expect the Talisay.....»»
Minglanilla grabs game 1 of the Rhea Gullas Cup finals
CEBU CITY, Philippines — Abante Minglanilla drew first blood in the best-of-three finals series of the Rhea Gullas Cup First District of Cebu Inter-City/Municipality Basketball Tournament held Saturday night, March 9, at the Minglanilla Sports Complex. This was after they outlasted the equally determined Talisay Aksyon Agad, 72-67, pulling them to just a game away.....»»
Moalboal hoop tournament kicked off on Saturday
CEBU CITY, Philippines — Moalboal Mayor Inocentes Cabaron aims to foster friendship and sportsmanship as the 2nd Mayor Inocentes Cabaron Invitational Inter-town tournament kicked off on Saturday evening at the Moalboal Sports Complex. In his message, Cabaron reiterated the goal of his comprehensive sports program that benefits not just his constituents, but also those from.....»»
Lapu-Lapu CBDRP grads get livelihood aid
LAPU-LAPU CITY, Cebu — Ninety-six individuals who completed the Community-Based Drug Rehabilitation Program (CBDRP) received P5,000 cash each from Lapu-Lapu City’s Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) of the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO). The distribution of the livelihood assistance was held on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, at the City Sports Complex. The beneficiaries of.....»»
Budget officers in CV undergo financial management training
CEBU CITY, Philippines — Over 600 budget officers in Central Visayas underwent Public Financial Management (PFM) Training in Cebu last month. The initiative, led by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) in collaboration with the Association of Local Budget Officers-Central Visayas Inc., took place at a hotel in Mandaue City. This training was a.....»»
PH-OGP brings 6th NAP to Cebu
CEBU CITY, Philippines —The Philippine Open Government Partnership (PH-OGP), chaired by Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, brought its 6th National Action Plan (NAP) to Cebu. With around 250 participants from different sectors in Region VII including more than a hundred civil society members, this year’s run of OGPinas! aims to highlight.....»»
Moalboal inter-town hoopla unfolds on March 9
CEBU CITY, Philippines— The Municipality of Moalboal will once again roll out the red carpet for sports as the cash-rich 2nd Mayor Inocentes Cabaron Invitational Inter-town tournament unfolds on March 9 at the town’s sports complex. A dozen teams will compete for a whopping P500,000 worth of cash prizes in this annual cage fest. For.....»»