Chan donates 1-month salary, goods to Mandaue fire victims
LAPU-LAPU CITY, Philippines — Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Junard “Ahong” Chan has donated his one-month salary to the fire victims of Sitio Paradise, Barangay Looc in Mandaue City. The cheque for the mayor’s salary amounted to P188,726. Aside from his one-month salary, Chan also turned over to Mandaue City Mayor Jonas Cortes 1,000 pcs. relief packs […] The post Chan donates 1-month salary, goods to Mandaue fire victims appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Lapu-Lapu Mayor donates P1M for Mandaue fire victims
LAPU-LAPU CITY, Philippines — Lapu-Lapu City or Lapu-Lapu Mayor Junard “Ahong” Chan turned over on Friday, Dec. 2, 2022, a cheque worth P1 million to Mandaue City Vice Mayor Glenn Bercede. Chan donated the amount to the city government of Mandaue for the fire victims at Sitio Paradise in Barangay Looc. The fire that hit […] The post Lapu-Lapu Mayor donates P1M for Mandaue fire victims appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Bong Go boosts fire victims’ recovery in Cebu City
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go has remained steadfast in his dedication to assisting disaster victims as shown by his team’s relief operations on Monday, 14 August, to communities affected by fires in Cebu City. Go’s team, in coordination with Mayor Mike Rama, Vice Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia, and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), assisted 103 recovering fire victims gathered at the Atillo Gymnasium in Barangay Punta Princesa. DTI provided livelihood assistance through its Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginhawa (PPG) program which Go pushed for during the Duterte administration and continues to support its implementation in order to boost livelihood recovery of those affected by various crises. In addition to the livelihood support, Go’s team provided shirts and masks to all beneficiaries, and a pair of shoes, a watch, a cellular phone, and balls for basketball to select recipients. “Sa panahon ng kahirapan at pagsubok dulot ng iba't-ibang sakuna, nais namin sa inyo'y magbigay ng pag-asa at tulong na magbibigay daan sa inyong mga pangarap. Ang programa na ito ay hindi lamang simpleng tulong kundi isang oportunidad upang makabangon at makamtan ang mas magandang kinabukasan,” stressed Go. Go underscored the crucial role of DTI’s PPG program in providing opportunities for sustainable income generation and the agency’s dedication to assisting affected communities in their journey toward recovery and rebuilding their lives. “Palaguin niyo ang inyong negosyo. Kapag lumago ang inyong negosyo, dalhin niyo po ang mga kita sa inyong mga pamilya... mas masarap sa pakiramdam kapag pinagpawisan at pinaghirapan niyo po ang inyong pagnenegosyo,” he added. In a video message, Go highlighted his other efforts to enhance disaster preparedness, response, and recovery strategies on a broader scale. He also asked for support for the passage of Senate Bill No. 188, which aims to establish the Department of Disaster Resilience (DDR). The proposed legislation envisions a new government department led by a cabinet secretary, focusing on comprehensive approaches to strengthen disaster preparedness across the country. The DDR's core areas of concentration include disaster risk reduction, disaster preparedness, response and recovery, and the advancement of resilience. “Mayro’n rin po ako nai-file na Department of Disaster Resilience, ito pong departamento na ito, a cabinet-secretary level na siya po ang makikipag-coordinate bago pa dumating ‘yung bagyo at ilikas po ang mga kababayan natin sa ligtas na lugar at preposition of goods,” Go explained. “Part rin po ito ng trabaho nila ang disaster-related tulad ng sunog. Kapag may lindol, sunog, bagyo at itong pagputok ng bulkan, ilikas na kaagad sa mga ligtas na lugar. Iyan po ang Department of Disaster Resilience at restoration of normalcy kaagad,” he added. As chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, Go initiated the Malasakit Centers program in 2018 in Cebu City after he personally witnessed the struggles of financially incapacitated Filipinos in getting medical assistance from the government. It was later institutionalized under Republic Act No. 11463, which he principally sponsored and authored. To date, there are 158 Malasakit Centers, including those at Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center (VSMMC), Cebu City Medical Center, and St. Anthony Mother & Child Hospital, that have helped over seven million Filipinos, according to the Department of Health (DOH). Other Malasakit Centers in the province are located at Cebu Provincial Hospital in Carcar City, Lapu-Lapu City District Hospital, Eversley Childs Sanitarium and General Hospital in Mandaue City, and Talisay District Hospital in Talisay City. Moreover, Go said DOH has identified areas to construct Super Health Centers (SHCs) in the province. SHCs were funded to be established in the cities of Bogo, Danao, Lapu-Lapu, and Mandaue; and in the towns of Borbon, Cordova, Moalboal, Samboan, and San Francisco in 2022. This year, more Super Health Centers were funded in the cities of Carcar, Cebu, Talisay, and Toledo; and in the towns of Carmen, Consolacion, Liloan, Medellin, and San Nicolas. An additional SHC will also be established in Danao City. “Ang isang malaking bagay dito ay ang early detection kung may sakit ang isang pasyente. Dahil nasa kanilang komunidad ang SHC, madali na para sa kanya ang magpakonsulta. At kung malalaman agad ang sakit ng isang pasyente, mabibigyan siya ng primary care, malalapatan ng lunas, at lalaki ang tsansa na maka-recover siya sa kanyang sakit,” he explained. SHCs offer database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray, ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service; oncology centers; physical therapy and rehabilitation center; and telemedicine. Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, supported the funding of various projects in the province, including the construction of multipurpose buildings in Barili, Cordova, Ginatilan, Pilar, Tabogon, and Talisay City; improvement of existing roads in Alcantara, Alcoy, Alegria, Asturias, Balamban, Boljoon, Borbon, Carmen, Madrilejos, Malabuyoc, Minglanilla, Moalboal, Pinamungajan, Sibonga, Sogod, Tabogon, Tabuelan, Carcar City and Naga City; improvement of flood mitigation structures in Catmon and Tuburan; installation of street lights in Asturias, Compostela, and Daanbantayan; and acquisition of ambulance units for Madridejos and Naga City. The post Bong Go boosts fire victims’ recovery in Cebu City appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go cites crucial role of barangays in nation-building
Emphasizing that empowering the barangays is the foundation of a strong and resilient nation, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go highlighted the indispensable role of barangay leaders in shaping communities and driving progress at the grassroots level in his speech during the Liga ng Barangay of Zamboanga City General Membership Assembly and Barangay Congress held at Makati Palace Hotel on Thursday, 27 July. Go first expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the barangay leaders for their tireless efforts toward uplifting their respective communities. He acknowledged their unwavering dedication and service, which often went unnoticed amidst the larger national issues. “Ako po’y nagpapasalamat sa ating barangay officials sa lahat ng inyong serbisyo sa bayan. Hindi po natin mararating kung asan tayo ngayon kung hindi dahil sa inyong sakripisyo,” said Go. “Ang tema ng pagtitipong ito, ‘Leaving a Legacy in the Barangay, Fulfilling Exemplary Leadership by the Way of Conscientious Governance’ ay napapanahon at napakahalaga. Sa panahon ngayon na marami tayong kinakaharap na pagsubok, mahalaga na patuloy tayong magtaglay ng responsableng pamumuno para sa ating mga barangay,” he continued. Go emphasized the significance of local governance and how it directly impacts the lives of ordinary citizens. He reiterated that effective governance starts at the grassroots level, and barangay leaders play a pivotal role in fostering a sense of unity, camaraderie, and cooperation among community members. As the senator delved into the challenges faced by barangay leaders, he expressed his commitment to working on legislation that would bolster their capabilities and support their initiatives. Go highlighted the need for increased funding, better resources, and comprehensive training for barangay officials, equipping them to handle the diverse needs of their communities. As a member of the Senate Committee on Local Government, Go is pushing to further empower barangays as the fundamental governing units in communities. He cited that one of his advocacies is to enhance public service delivery and bring the government closer to the people. Go has filed two proposed legislative measures to support and acknowledge the hard work of barangay officials and health workers. The first one, Senate Bill No. 197 or the Magna Carta for Barangays, aims to grant similar treatment to barangay officials as regular government employees. Under the proposed bill, the Punong Barangay, members of the Sangguniang Barangay, the Sangguniang Kabataan chairperson, the barangay secretary, and the barangay treasurer will be eligible to receive salaries, benefits, allowances (such as hazard pay, representation, and transportation allowance), 13th-month pay, and other perks that regular government employees enjoy. The proposed measure also empowers the Sangguniang Barangay to determine the appropriate number of permanent barangay tanods during their administration, with appointed tanods entitled to honoraria, allowances, and other benefits. Go's motivation behind reintroducing the Magna Carta for Barangays is to improve the general welfare of barangays and their residents, elevate the economic and social status of barangay officials, and provide every barangay with the basic facilities for decent, healthy, and comfortable living. “Alam n’yo mga barangay captains, you are superstar in your own right sa inyong lugar. Ang authority malaki talaga ang inyong papel sa lahat, sa peace and order, sa basic services, delivery of goods, at lahat. Ako matagal na ako, galing ako sa ibaba, diyan ako sa city hall sa Davao noon,” said Go. “Full support po ako sa inyo, kung anong maitutulong ko sa mga pasyente ninyo, tutulong ako. Ang pakiusap ko lang sa inyo huwag n’yo pong pabayaan ang mga mahihirap nating kababayan, ‘yung mga helpless and hopeless nating kababayan na walang malapitan kung hindi tayo pong nasa gobyerno,” he added. Go's advocacy also extends to the indispensable role of barangay health workers (BHWs) who act as the first point of contact for healthcare in their communities. To ensure fair compensation and benefits for these front liners, he introduced SBN 427, also known as the Barangay Health Workers Compensation. The proposed bill recognizes the invaluable contributions of BHWs in delivering primary healthcare services, raising health awareness, and safeguarding the well-being of the community. It aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s call to prioritize the welfare of BHWs, especially given their significant contributions during the nation's fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Go firmly believes that prioritizing such measures will not only acknowledge the crucial role of BHWs but also guarantee fair compensation and adequate protection for them while fulfilling their duties. He lauded the dedication of these health workers, particularly in remote areas, where they play a vital role in providing medical assistance to communities without easy access to doctors. “Mayroon lang akong isi-share sa inyo, sana po ay maalala ninyo ito sa mahabang panahon. Minsan lang tayo dadaan sa mundong ito. Kung ano pong kabutihan o tulong na pwede nating gawin sa ating kapwa, gawin na po natin ngayon dahil hindi na tayo babalik sa mundong ito. Ako po ang inyong Senator Kuya Bong Go, patuloy na magseserbisyo sa inyong lahat. Dahil ako po ay naniniwala na ang serbisyo sa tao ay serbisyo po ‘yan sa Diyos, serbisyo kay Allah. Maraming salamat. Mahal na mahal ko po kayo,” Go concluded. On the same day, Go distributed assistance to disadvantaged students in Biñan City, Laguna, and to fire victims in Cavite City. The post Bong Go cites crucial role of barangays in nation-building appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
India train mishap kills nearly 300
BELASORE, India — At least 288 people were killed and more than 850 injured in a train crash in India on Friday night. The crash occurred near Balasore, in the eastern state of Odisha, when two passenger trains and a goods train collided. The impact of the crash caused carriages to be lifted into the air, twisted, and then smashed off the tracks. Rescue workers used metal cutting tools to pry open gaps in the torn sides of carriages in a desperate search to reach those trapped inside. By Saturday morning, they had pulled out 288 bodies and more than 850 injured passengers. The death toll is expected to rise, as many of the injured are in critical condition. The cause of the crash is still under investigation. Residents and volunteers rushed to help the injured, providing food, water, and blankets. They also helped to carry the injured to hospitals. The crash has caused widespread disruption to train services in the region. All train trips between Balasore and Bhubaneswar have been canceled, and others were running late. The government has announced compensation of 500,000 rupees (about $7,000) for the families of each of the victims. The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, has expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and has ordered a full investigation into the crash. Chronology of rail disasters With hundreds killed and more injured in a three-train collision in India, AFP looked back on some of the worst rail disasters of the last 10 years: Greek collision. On 28 February 2023, a head-on collision between a freight train and a passenger train on the route between Athens and Thessaloniki claimed 57 lives, in the country’s worst rail accident; Stowaways derailed. On 10 March 2022, a freight train loaded with stowaways derailed in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Lualaba province, killing at least 75 people and injuring 125 others. A month later, at least eight people died when a goods train derailed in the same area; Pakistan farmlands. On 7 June 2021, at least 63 people died when a train hurtling through farmland derailed and collided with another passenger service in Pakistan’s southern Sindh province; Taiwan tragedy. On 2 April 2021, at least 49 people were killed and 200 injured when a passenger train collided with a truck that slid down an embankment near the city of Hualien — the island’s worst rail disaster in decades; Pakistan pilgrims. At least 74 people died and more than 40 were injured on 31 October 2019, when a fire broke out on an overcrowded passenger train carrying pilgrims to a religious gathering near Lahore; Crowds on tracks. A speeding train ran over revelers watching fireworks during a Hindu festival in northern India on 19 October 2018, killing at least 60 people; Indian Express disaster. At least 146 people died when an Indore-Patna Express train with around 2,000 people on board derailed in Uttar Pradesh on 20 November 2016, sending carriages crashing into each other; Speeding Cameroon train. A train traveling from the capital Yaounde to the economic hub of Douala derailed on 21 October 2016, killing at least 79 people and injuring around 550 others. It was traveling “abnormally” fast before the crash, the investigation into the crash concluded; Congo accident. A goods train carrying hundreds of illegal passengers flew off the rails in a swampy and inaccessible part of the south of the Democratic Republic of Congo on 22 April 2014, killing at least 136 people. Many had to be buried in mass graves nearby; and Spain derailing. About 80 people were killed and 140 injured when a high-speed train slammed into a concrete wall near the northwestern city of Santiago de Compostela on 24 July 2013. The train had been approaching a curve at more than twice the speed limit. The post India train mishap kills nearly 300 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Rep. Cindi Chan also donates salary to Odette-damaged Olango church
LAPU-LAPU CITY, Cebu—Aside from Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Junard “Ahong” Chan, his wife, Lone District Representative Cindi King-Chan, has also donated her 5-month salary for the restoration of the St. Augustine Parish on Olango Island. The Congresswoman’s salary for five months amounts to P1 million. Cindi personally handed over a cheque to Fr. Edgar Lumarda, parish […] The post Rep. Cindi Chan also donates salary to Odette-damaged Olango church appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Looc brgy chief to 2,000 Paradise fire victims: Leave school, wait for city’s temporary housing
MANDAUE CITY, Philippines — The over 2,000 victims of the Sitio Paradise fire have started to leave the Ceasar Cabahug Elementary School where they were temporarily staying for nearly a month or since Nov. 27. Looc Barangay Captain Allan Siazon said that the victims of the Nov. 23 fire were given until Dec. 31 to […] The post Looc brgy chief to 2,000 Paradise fire victims: Leave school, wait for city’s temporary housing appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Barangay Looc declares state of emergency due to massive fire
MANDAUE CITY, Philippines — Barangay Looc in Mandaue City has declared a state of emergency after it was hit by a massive fire on Tuesday, November 22. Looc Barangay Captain Allan Siazon, on Thursday, November 24, said that emergency funds will be used to purchase goods and equipment that the fire victims would need especially […] The post Barangay Looc declares state of emergency due to massive fire appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
In Photos: Lapu-Lapu City gov’t sends aid to Brgy Basak fire victims
MANDAUE CITY, Cebu – The Lapu-Lapu City government already sent aid to individuals who were displaced by the Sunday afternoon fire that hit Sitio Caimitohan in Barangay Basak. Mayor Junard Chan said that the fire victims received pack meals, blankets, basins, and plates among others. The City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) has so […] The post In Photos: Lapu-Lapu City gov’t sends aid to Brgy Basak fire victims appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Trafficking victims have to pay for freedom
The Bureau of Immigration reported that a male trafficking victim was repatriated on 22 September after being forced to work as a scammer for a Chinese company in Myanmar. The authorities identified the victim as “Gio,” 33 years old. He left the country in September 2022 with two other friends, claiming that they were merely traveling to Thailand for a vacation. However, the victim admitted that after his repatriation, he was recruited by a certain “Liza” whom he met on Facebook and was lured to work as a customer service representative. He was promised a salary of up to P100,000 per month. Gio said that his recruiter asked him to pay P20,000 for his travel expenses, which were deducted from his salary. He added that after arriving in Thailand, he was transferred to Myawaddy, Myanmar southeast of the country and close to the border with Thailand. According to Gio, he was forced to work as an online love scammer by attracting foreign victims to invest in pseudo-cryptocurrency accounts. He received a salary of P60,000 a month for six months, far from what was promised to him by his recruiter. He was only able to go back home after collecting P200,000 from his friends and family to pay his company for his release. BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco said that the same modus has been observed since last year, and victims are often promised high salaries but end up in debt. As early as October 2022, the BI chief had already sounded the alarm on the modus targeting Filipinos to work for companies that operate online scams such as catfishing. Tansingco added that this is a case of double trafficking, wherein the victims are trafficked by making them agree through false promises, and then they will be forced to be part of a scamming syndicate, making it hard for them to seek help and repatriation. The National Bureau of Investigation and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration provided assistance to the victim. The post Trafficking victims have to pay for freedom appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Trafficking victim pays P200K for freedom
The Bureau of Immigration reported that a male trafficking victim was repatriated on 22 September after being forced to work as a scammer for a Chinese company in Myanmar. The authorities identified the victim as "Gio", 33 years old. He left the country in September last year with two other friends, claiming that they were merely traveling to Thailand for a vacation. However, the victim admitted after his repatriation that he was recruited by a certain "Liza" whom he met on Facebook. Liza offered him a customer service representative job with a monthly salary of up to P100,000. The victim admitted to accepting the offer. Gio said that his recruiter asked him to pay P20,000 for his travel expenses, which were deducted from his salary. He added that after arriving in Thailand, he was transferred to Myawaddy, Myanmar, which is close to the border of Thailand. According to Gio, he was forced to work as an online love scammer by attracting foreign victims to invest in pseudo-cryptocurrency accounts. He received a salary of P60,000 a month for six months, far from what was promised to him by his recruiter. He was only able to go back home after collecting P200,000 from his friends and family to pay his company for his release. BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco said that the same modus has been observed since last year, and victims are often promised with high salaries but end up in debt. As early as October 2022, the BI chief had already sounded the alarm on the modus targeting Filipinos to work for companies that operate online scams, such as catfishing. Tansingco added that this is a case of double trafficking, wherein the victims are trafficked by making them agree through false promises, and then they will be forced to be part of a scamming syndicate, making it hard for them to seek help and repatriation. The National Bureau of Investigation and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration provided assistance to the victim. The post Trafficking victim pays P200K for freedom appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go sends assistance to Cebu fire victims
The office of Senator Christopher “Bong” Go spearheaded a relief operation for fire victims in Barangays Kasambagan, Duljo Fatima, and Inayawan in Cebu City on Thursday, 21 September, as part of the senator’s efforts to ensure that the communities fully recover from the incident. The relief operation was held at Brgy. Kasambagan Hall. The senator’s team, together with Brgy. Kasambagan Captain Franklyn Ong, distributed snacks, shirts, and balls for basketball and volleyball to 102 fire victims. They also gave away shoes, watches, and mobile phones to select recipients. Meanwhile, the National Housing Authority (NHA) provided housing assistance to each qualified family. “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 said in a video message. “Isinulong ko ito noon at patuloy na sinusuportahan ang programa ng NHA ngayon upang mas marami pang mga biktima ng sakuna ang makapagpatayo ng maayos na bahay at makabangon muli mula sa trahedya,” he added. Go also highlighted Republic Act No. 11589 or the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Modernization Act of 2021. This legislation, principally authored and co-sponsored by Go, is designed to bolster BFP’s capacity through a decade-long modernization initiative. This program encompasses the enlistment of additional firefighters, procurement of more firefighting equipment, and the provision of 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. As chair of the Senate Committee on Health, Go also encouraged residents to take advantage of the services offered by the Malasakit Centers nationwide, including the centers located at Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center (VSMMC), Cebu City Medical Center, and St. Anthony Mother & Child Hospital, all in Cebu City. The Malasakit Center is a convenient one-stop shop that brings together relevant agencies to provide medical aid to indigent Filipinos. Go is the principal author and sponsor of the Malasakit Centers Act, which has successfully assisted over seven million Filipinos through the 159 operational centers nationwide. “Ako po ay nasunugan at tinulungan po ako ng mahal na mayor at mahal na Senator Bong Go... 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. Other Malasakit Centers in the province are available at Cebu Provincial Hospital in Carcar City, Lapu-Lapu City District Hospital, Eversley Childs Sanitarium and General Hospital in Mandaue City, and Talisay District Hospital in Talisay City. Go also expressed his support for the construction of Super Health Centers in strategic locations as identified by DOH nationwide. Through the collective efforts of Go, DOH, LGUs, and fellow lawmakers, sufficient funds had been allocated for 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and 322 in 2023. Go emphasized the critical role that Super Health Centers play in decongesting hospitals, facilitating early disease detection, and providing essential healthcare services such as primary care and medical consultations directly to the community. 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 centers; 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 highlighted that he has principally sponsored and is one of the authors of the Regional Specialty Centers Act which was recently enacted into law. The law mandates the establishment of regional specialty centers within existing DOH regional hospitals. It stands as a testament to the commitment of the government to uplift the nation's health infrastructure and bring actual medical services closer to the Filipino people. Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, likewise supported the funding of various projects in the province, including the construction of multipurpose buildings in Barili, Cordova, Ginatilan, Pilar, Tabogon, and Talisay City; improvement of existing roads in Alcantara, Alcoy, Alegria, Asturias, Balamban, Boljoon, Borbon, Carmen, Madrilejos, Malabuyoc, Minglanilla, Moalboal, Pinamungajan, Sibonga, Sogod, Tabogon, Tabuelan, Carcar City and Naga City; improvement of flood mitigation structures in Catmon and Tuburan; installation of street lights in Asturias, Compostela and Daanbantayan; and acquisition of ambulance units for Madridejos and Naga City. The post Bong Go sends assistance to Cebu fire victims appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Trafficking victim pay P200K for freedom
The Bureau of Immigration reported that a male trafficking victim was repatriated on 22 September after being forced to work as a scammer for a Chinese company in Myanmar. The authorities identified the victim as "Gio", 33 years old. He left the country in September last year with two other friends, claiming that they were merely traveling to Thailand for a vacation. However, the victim admitted after his repatriation that he was recruited by a certain "Liza" whom he met on Facebook. Liza offered him a customer service representative job with a monthly salary of up to P100,000. The victim admitted to accepting the offer. Gio said that his recruiter asked him to pay P20,000 for his travel expenses, which were deducted from his salary. He added that after arriving in Thailand, he was transferred to Myawaddy, Myanmar, which is close to the border of Thailand. According to Gio, he was forced to work as an online love scammer by attracting foreign victims to invest in pseudo-cryptocurrency accounts. He received a salary of P60,000 a month for six months, far from what was promised to him by his recruiter. He was only able to go back home after collecting P200,000 from his friends and family to pay his company for his release. BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco said that the same modus has been observed since last year, and victims are often promised with high salaries but end up in debt. As early as October 2022, the BI chief had already sounded the alarm on the modus targeting Filipinos to work for companies that operate online scams, such as catfishing. Tansingco added that this is a case of double trafficking, wherein the victims are trafficked by making them agree through false promises, and then they will be forced to be part of a scamming syndicate, making it hard for them to seek help and repatriation. The National Bureau of Investigation and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration provided assistance to the victim. The post Trafficking victim pay P200K for freedom appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Parishioners confront gang but met bullets
Evangelical church members who marched to confront criminal gang members in Port-au-Prince, Haiti on Saturday were fired upon by the bandits, killing an unknown number of victims, local police said on Monday. Pastor Marco Zidor, leader of the Piscine de Bethesda evangelical church, reportedly gathered his followers and persuaded them to march toward the area held by members of the Canaan gang in the north of the capital. However, presumed gang members opened fire with automatic weapons on the marchers, some of whom were brandishing machetes and sticks. Videos broadcast by the gang show numerous corpses strewn about. Haitian National Police said Monday it tried to stop the marchers with a security perimeter to avoid bloodshed. “However, the demonstrators bypassed the security arrangements... and still arrived in the desired areas to confront the members of said gang,” the police said. It added that the confrontation “left several demonstrators shot dead and several others wounded. Some of the faithful are... held hostage.” Meanwhile, a government prosecutor is holding Zidor accountable for his followers’ death. The Je Klere Foundation, a human rights group, called on prosecutors to crack down on those responsible, noting that “incitements to violence in sermons are criminal acts provided for and punished by the Haitian Criminal Code.” More than 2,400 people have been killed in Haiti since the start of 2023 amid rampant gang violence, the UN said earlier this month. Gangs control roughly 80 percent of the capital, and violent crimes including kidnappings for ransom, carjackings, rape and armed theft are common. WITH AFP The post Parishioners confront gang but met bullets appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go extends more assistance to Cebu City fire victims
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go emphasized his commitment to the Filipino people's well-being by continuing to support recovering families previously affected by fire incidents. He provided additional aid to them during a relief operation in Cebu City on Friday, 25 August. Working alongside Congressman Edu Rama, Mayor Mike Rama, Vice Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia, and Tisa Barangay Captain Ringgo Pacaña, Go's team distributed snacks, masks, and shirts to 52 individuals recovering from a fire incident at Neneng compound gymnasium in Brgy. Tisa. Select beneficiaries also received mobile phones, basketball and volleyball balls, and a watch. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) extended livelihood support through its Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginhawa program, aimed at helping those who lost homes and income due to the fire. “Salamat po sa DTI sa programa nilang pangkabuhayan. Ang PPG program ay aking isinulong noon at patuloy na sinusuportahan ang implementasyon ngayon upang matulungang makabangon ang kabuhayan ng ating mga kababayang apektado ng sakuna,” Go explained. “Mas masarap nga naman ang pakiramdam kapag pinaghirapan at pinagpawisan ang pagnenegosyo sa tamang paraan. Dalhin ninyo ang kita sa inyong mga pamilya at gamitin ito nang tama para makaahon po tayo sa paghihirap na pinagdadaanan natin,” Go emphasized. Meanwhile, Go highlighted the modernization of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) as a significant step in improving firefighters' capabilities. His vision for a well-equipped and highly trained firefighting force can be achieved through a law he earlier authored and co-sponsored, Republic Act No. 11589 or the BFP Modernization Act. This law provides the necessary resources to enhance the BFP's infrastructure, technology, and training programs, allowing them to respond more effectively to emergencies and protect communities from fire's devastating effects, Go explained. “Magdasal po tayo at ipagdasal po natin ‘yung mga mahal natin sa buhay. Ang gamit po ay nabibili. Ang pera po ay kikitain rin po natin, magsipag lang tayo. Subalit ‘yung perang kikitain ay hindi po nabibili ang buhay. Ang nawalang buhay po ay wala na. A lost life is a lost life forever,” he said. Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, also encouraged those with health concerns to seek assistance at Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center (VSMMC), Cebu City Medical Center, and St. Anthony Mother & Child Hospital through Malasakit Centers. Currently, 158 Malasakit Centers across the country have aided over seven million underprivileged Filipinos, according to the Department of Health (DOH). The Malasakit Centers Act was principally authored and sponsored by Go to ensure that underprivileged Filipinos have convenient access to medical assistance programs from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), DOH, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO). Other Malasakit Centers in the province are available at Cebu Provincial Hospital in Carcar City, Lapu-Lapu City District Hospital, Eversley Childs Sanitarium and General Hospital in Mandaue City, and Talisay District Hospital in Talisay City “Kung kailangan niyo po ng tulong sa pagpapaopera sa Maynila, huwag po kayong mahiyang lumapit sa ating mga lokal na opisyal o kaya sa aking opisina. Magsabi lang ho kayo at kami po ay handang tumulong sa abot nang aming makakaya,” Go offered. Still in line with his health advocacy, Go said DOH has identified areas to construct Super Health Centers (SHCs) in the province, particularly in the cities of Bogo, Danao, Lapu-Lapu, and Mandaue; and in the towns of Borbon, Cordova, Moalboal, Samboan, and San Francisco in 2022. This year, more SHCs were funded in the cities of Carcar, Cebu, Talisay, and Toledo; and in the towns of Carmen, Consolacion, Liloan, Medellin, and San Nicolas. An additional SHC will also be established in Danao City. Through the efforts of fellow lawmakers, 307 SHCs were funded in 2022 and another 322 in 2023 nationwide. The centers offer database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray, ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service; oncology centers; physical therapy and rehabilitation center; and telemedicine, which makes remote diagnosis and treatment of patients possible. Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, likewise supported the funding of various projects in the province, including the construction of multipurpose buildings in Barili, Cordova, Ginatilan, Pilar, Tabogon, and Talisay City; improvement of existing roads in Alcantara, Alcoy, Alegria, Asturias, Balamban, Boljoon, Borbon, Carmen, Madrilejos, Malabuyoc, Minglanilla, Moalboal, Pinamungajan, Sibonga, Sogod, Tabogon, Tabuelan, Carcar City and Naga City; improvement of flood mitigation structures in Catmon and Tuburan; installation of street lights in Asturias, Compostela, and Daanbantayan; and acquisition of ambulance units for Madridejos and Naga City. The post Bong Go extends more assistance to Cebu City fire victims appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Zambo fire victims receive aid
ZAMBOANGA CITY — The Department of Social Welfare and Development in Zamboanga Peninsula on Tuesday distributed food packs and other relief goods to 233 families displaced by the Sunday night blaze in Barangay Camino Nuevo in this city. DSWD-9 director Riduan Hadjimuddin said that his office responded after learning that many of those who reside in the village failed to bring with them anything during the fire that lasted for about seven hours from 9 p.m. on Sunday to 3 a.m. the following day. Hadjimuddin said the distribution of relief goods was held at the cover courts of Camino Nuevo and Canelar, the temporary evacuation centers set up by the local government of Zamboanga. The post Zambo fire victims receive aid appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Greece forest fires death toll hits 20
Eighteen suspected migrants were found dead Tuesday in a Greece forest fire near the Turkish border as scores of firefighters battled to contain the second deadly wave of blazes to hit the country in a month. Fire department spokesman Yiannis Artopios said the victims were found north of the city of Alexandroupoli. As no local residents had been reported missing "the possibility that they are people who entered our country illegally is under investigation," Artopios said in a televised address. The area is a frequent entry point for irregular migrants. The latest deaths pushed the overall toll from this week's fires to 20, after another suspected migrant was found dead in the area Monday. An elderly shepherd had also been found dead north of Athens on Monday. Flames continued to spread unchecked in northeastern Greece as well as the islands of Evia and Kythnos and the region of Boeotia north of Athens, amid a dangerous mix of gale-force winds and temperatures of up to 41 degrees Celsius (106 Fahrenheit). "It's a similar situation to July," a fire department spokeswoman told AFP, referring to a wave in several parts of the country that left five people dead. Over 60 fires had erupted in the last 24 hours, and six countries were sending help via the European Union's civil protection mechanism, the fire department said. Some 120 firefighters from Cyprus, Romania, the Czech Republic, Croatia, Germany, and Serbia will pitch in, fire department spokesman Vassilis Vathrakogiannis told state TV ERT. A new fire broke out Tuesday at a landfill in the industrial zone of Aspropyrgos near Athens, covering the area in a noxious black cloud. Officials shut down the nearest section of the Athens ring road and advised residents to stay indoors. Another fire broke out in the foothills of Mount Parnitha near the capitals, prompting evacuations. Late Monday, an evacuation was ordered at the hospital of Alexandroupolis, a northeastern Greek port city located in an area where fires were raging for a fourth day. The coastguard said it had moved 65 patients to a waiting ferry at the city harbor. On the island of Evia, near the capital, officials late Monday evacuated the industrial town of Nea Artaki, where the fire has damaged poultry and pork farms. The fire near Alexandroupolis is also threatening the national park of Dadia, one of the most important protected areas in Europe that is home to rare birds. The very hot and dry conditions which increase the fire risk will persist until Friday, according to meteorologists. Amid a heatwave, a fire that started on 18 July and was fanned by strong winds ravaged almost 17,770 hectares (more than 43,000 acres) in 10 days in the south of Rhodes, a popular tourist island in the southeastern Aegean Sea. Around 20,000 people, mostly tourists, had to be evacuated. The post Greece forest fires death toll hits 20 appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Go continues push for countryside development
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has initiated several key infrastructure projects in Catbalogan, Samar in line with his commitment to help pave the way for development and progress in the area through continued collaboration with the local government led by Gov. Sharee Ann Tan. The senator’s support in these initiatives as vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance was highlighted by his presence during the Adlaw han Barangay 2023, a significant part of the Samar Day Celebration, on Friday, 11 August. One of these activities is the opening of the Tandaya Hall in Catbalogan City where Go participated in the ribbon-cutting ceremony together with Samar Governor Tan, Vice Governor Arnold Tan, BHW (Barangay Health Worker) Partylist Representestive Natasha Co, Catbalogan City Mayor Dexter Uy and other local officials. The inauguration was also witnessed by 24 mayors and vice mayors together with their councilors, and 951 barangay captains and their kagawads. Go was also instrumental in the construction of the New Catbalogan City Hall, a new Sports Complex, and the Lagundi-San Andres Access Road. These projects, all under construction, are poised to bring in unprecedented benefits to Samar. The new City Hall will provide a modern hub for governance, streamlining public service and administrative functions. The Sports Complex will offer recreational and athletic opportunities, fostering community engagement and youth development. The Lagundi-San Andres Access Road, once completed, will significantly improve connectivity within the region, reducing travel time, boosting local trade, and enhancing the transportation of goods and services. Last Saturday, 12 August, the senator reasserted his dedication to enhance the country’s ability to withstand disasters following the onslaught of typhoon “Egay” in various regions in Luzon. Go has previously introduced Senate Bill 188, also known as the Department of Disaster Resilience Bill, with the goal of creating a specialized agency devoted primarily to disaster risk reduction and management. This legislation aims to consolidate disaster management efforts to improve the Philippines’ ability to deal with future calamities efficiently. In another development, Go provided assistance to 27 fire victims at the Senior Citizen’s Building in Barangay Pojo, Bugasong, Antique also Saturday, even as he continued to advocate for better fire prevention efforts to ensure the safety and security of communities. The post Go continues push for countryside development 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......»»
Bong Go provides relief aid to Davao fire victims
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go provided assistance to fire victims in Davao City on Friday, 14 July. The relief activity took place at Barangay 23-C gymnasium, where his team led the distribution of relief goods to 109 affected families. Together with Barangay Captain Alimodin Usman, Go’s team extended grocery packs, masks, shirts, and snacks to all households. They also gave away bicycles, cellular phones, shoes, and balls for basketball and volleyball to select recipients. Representatives from the Department of Social Welfare and Development gave financial assistance to help with the damages. “Mga kababayan, gusto kong pasalamatan ang mga kasamahan ko sa gobyerno. Mayroon lang akong sasabihin sa inyo. Palagi kasi akong nakakarinig ng pagpapasalamat. ‘Salamat (dating) presidente (Rodrigo) Duterte, salamat Senador Bong Go' sa mga programa na makakatulong sa mga mahihirap," Go said in a video conference call. “Huwag kayong magpasalamat sa amin. Sa totoo lang kami ang dapat na magpasalamat sa inyo dahil binigyan n’yo kami ng pagkakataon na makapagserbisyo sa inyo. Maraming salamat sa inyo. Sanay ako sa trabaho,” he continued. Go also cited that he primarily authored and co-sponsored Republic Act No. 11589, otherwise known as the Bureau of Fire Protection Modernization Act of 2021. Under the law, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) undergoes a ten-year modernization program to help improve the capabilities of the agency. The program includes recruiting more firefighters, acquiring new fire equipment, and developing specialized training, among others. As chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, Go likewise urged those with health concerns to visit the Malasakit Center at the Southern Philippines Medical Center in the city, where they can seek assistance for their medical-related expenses. Designed to assist poor and indigent Filipinos, the Malasakit Center is a one-stop shop, where all relevant agencies are brought together under one roof to ensure the accessibility of medical assistance programs. The Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, principally sponsored and authored by Go, has successfully assisted more than three million Filipinos with 158 operational centers nationwide. In addition to the Malasakit Centers, Senator Go maintained that the construction of 11 Super Health Centers across Davao City is underway, in coordination with the Department of Health. Super Health Centers will be strategically built in rural communities to ensure basic health services are accessible to more Filipinos. The centers offer database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray, ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service; oncology centers; physical therapy and rehabilitation center; and telemedicine, which makes remote diagnosis and treatment of patients possible. “Higit 600 na Super Health Center ang itatayo sa buong Pilipinas sa tulong ng aking mga kasamahan sa Kongreso at sa DOH. Iyan ang Super Health Center. ‘Yung mga buntis pwede nang manganak diyan, hindi na kailangan (lumayo) pa (at) pumunta ng ospital,” the senator explained further. “Sa pamamagitan nito, mailalapit natin ang pangunahing serbisyo medikal mula sa gobyerno sa mga taong nangangailangan nito lalo na sa mga nasa malalayong lugar,” he added. As vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, Go has also supported several initiatives in Davao City, including 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 SPMC and the acquisition of ambulances. “Lahat ng tao sa mundo ay may bisyo. Ang bisyo ng social worker tulungan ang mga mahihirap. Ang bisyo ng mga pulis hulihin ang mga kriminal. Ang bisyo ng doctor gamutin ang mga pasyente. Ako may bisyo rin. Ang aking bisyo ay magserbisyo sa inyong lahat,” Go reiterated. “Kung ano pong kabutihan o tulong na pwede nating gawin sa ating kapwa gawin na po natin ngayon dahil hindi na po tayo babalik sa mundong ito. Ako po ang inyong Senador kuya Bong Go, patuloy na magseserbisyo sa inyong lahat. Dahil ako’y naniniwala na ang serbisyo po sa tao ay serbisyo po ‘yan sa Diyos, serbisyo ‘yan kay Allah,” he concluded. On the same day, Go personally provided additional support while the National Housing Authority extended emergency housing assistance for recovering fire victims from various barangays in Davao City. The post Bong Go provides relief aid to Davao fire victims appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go extends assistance to fire victims in Cotabato City
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go wasted no time in mobilizing his team to provide immediate assistance to fire victims in Barangay Mother Bagua, Cotabato City on Tuesday, 20 June. Go's team assisted a total of 167 fire-hit households and provided essential goods, such as grocery packs, masks, vitamins, shirts, and snacks, at the Rasheeda High School covered court. They also gave away cellular phones, watches, and balls for basketball and volleyball to select beneficiaries. Moreover, the Department of Social Welfare and Development extended financial assistance to help the affected families recover. Chair of the Senate Committee on Health, Go encouraged those in need of medical attention to seek the services of the Malasakit Center in the city located at Cotabato Regional and Medical Center or at Sanitarium Hospital in Sultan Kudarat town. Meanwhile, in Maguindanao del Sur, residents can visit the Malasakit Center at Maguindanao Provincial Hospital in Shariff Aguak. “Sa mga pasyente, lapitan niyo lang ang Malasakit Center dahil para ‘to sa inyo. Kung may hospital bill kayo, nandiyan ang mga ahensya ng gobyerno na tutulong para mabayaran ito,” said Go in his video message. After he personally witnessed the struggles of disadvantaged Filipinos in settling their hospital bills, Go initiated the Malasakit Centers program in 2018. This was later institutionalized under Republic Act No. 11463, which he principally authored and sponsored in 2019. The Malasakit Center houses relevant agencies where patients can conveniently avail of medical assistance programs, such as the DSWD, Department of Health, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. There are now 158 Malasakit Centers nationwide. Super Health Centers are also anticipated to be established in the province which shall offer basic health services, such as database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray and ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service, oncology centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation center, and telemedicine, where remote diagnosis and treatment of patients will be done. "Magkakaroon po ng 307 na Super Health Center sa buong Pilipinas sa taong 2022 at 322 na Super Health Center sa taong 2023 sa tulong po ng mga kasamahan ko sa Kongreso, mga lokal na opisyal, at ng Department of Health,” Go explained. Go then reassured that the Bureau of Fire Protection will be more equipped to respond to fire-related incidents following the implementation of the BFP Modernization Act, which he primarily authored and co-sponsored in the Senate. The law provides for a ten-year modernization program for BFP that includes the acquisition of modern fire equipment, recruitment of more firefighters, and provision of specialized training, among others. “Magdasal po tayo at ipagdasal po natin ‘yung mga mahal natin sa buhay. Ang gamit po ay nabibili. Ang pera po ay kikitain rin po natin, magsipag lang tayo. Subalit ‘yung perang kikitain ay hindi po nabibili ang buhay. Ang nawalang buhay po ay wala na. A lost life is a lost life forever,” he said. As Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, Go has also supported several projects, including the construction of public markets in Buldon and Matanog; and the construction of a multipurpose building in Matanog. The post Bong Go extends assistance to fire victims in Cotabato City appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»