Contact tracers in Cebu City finally get salary, health care workers gets 2nd tranche of assistance
CEBU CITY, Philippines — The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) contact tracers in Cebu City are finally getting their long-awaited salaries after months of delay or since August 2020. The Cebu City Emergency Operations Center (EOC) revealed that the city government had started the release of the salaries of the contact tracers for the months of […] The post Contact tracers in Cebu City finally get salary, health care workers gets 2nd tranche of assistance appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
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 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......»»
Prioritize the poor, bring gov’t services closer to needy
For many of our fellow Filipinos who can barely afford their daily expenses, getting treated in a hospital is oftentimes a burdensome choice that they resort to only if it is a matter of life and death. Usually, our struggling kababayans choose to endure their illness for fear of falling deeper into debt due to huge hospital bills, medicines and other expenses. And by this time, an ordinary disease has already become a serious medical condition. Their plight is what inspired us to initiate the Malasakit Centers program in 2018 which provides one-stop shops where our indigent patients may more conveniently access medical assistance from the government. By bringing together programs of various government agencies under one roof, such as the Department of Health, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, the centers streamline the process of availing medical assistance. I have been appealing to officials and workers in the health sector to prioritize the needs of the poor, especially in public health facilities since these patients have nowhere else to turn to but to seek the help of their government. I also appeal to all hospital staff to be patient and compassionate in guiding Filipinos, particularly the poor, so that they can properly have access to the services offered by our public hospitals and from the medical assistance programs available in any of our 158 Malasakit Centers nationwide. That is why as Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and as the principal author and sponsor of the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, I make time to personally check on the operations of our Malasakit Centers across the country, in addition to attending the groundbreaking of Super Health Centers and leading our usual relief distributions for Filipinos in need. On 16 June, I conducted a monitoring visit to two Malasakit Centers in Leyte, where I was honored to be declared as an adopted son of the province through Resolution 2020-337 passed on 24 April 2020 and formally granted on 16 June by the provincial government. During the visit, I recognized the efforts of Governor Carlos Jericho “Icot” Petilla, Baybay City Mayor Jose Carlos “Boying” Cari and Vice Mayor Ernesto Butawan, Vice Governor Sandy Javier, Cong. Carl Cari, Cong. Karen Javier, Board Member Carlo Loreto, and other officials for their commitment to bringing government services closer to their constituents. I also visited the Malasakit Center at Baybay City Immaculate Conception Hospital where we assisted 30 out-patients, 140 in-patients, and 192 front liners, while the DSWD extended financial aid to qualified in-patients. We likewise inspected the Super Health Center and the new boardwalk in the city which I supported to help the community. I then checked on the operations of the Malasakit Center at Ormoc District Hospital in Ormoc City. We also assisted 283 patients and 211 front liners in the hospital, while 133 qualified inpatients received additional assistance from the DSWD. Following this, I led a relief operation for 1,065 struggling residents in the city and attended the ribbon-cutting of the newly constructed pentathlon facility with a dedicated fencing hall, among others — a project I supported as Vice Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance and as Chair of the Senate Committee on Sports, together with the local government led by Cong. Richard Gomez and Mayor Lucy Torres-Gomez. Earlier that week, I was in Davao del Norte to participate in the celebration of the first anniversary of an insurgency-free Davao del Norte led by Gov. Edwin Jubahib, held in Tagum City on 13 June. I also personally spearheaded a relief operation for 1,500 struggling residents in the city. Simultaneously, we provided more support to the community in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment which held an orientation for temporary employment to 721 individuals. Following this, I visited the town of Carmen with Mayor Leony Bahague to witness the groundbreaking of its Super Health Center and provide aid to 1,666 more indigents. On 15 June, I was in Quezon City with my team to witness the inauguration of two multipurpose buildings in Barangays Commonwealth and Payatas which I also supported for funding together with Councilor Mikey Belmonte. We likewise aided a thousand indigents in the city with Mayor Joy Belmonte. We then headed to Marikina City to assist 3,000 more struggling residents from Marikina City and the towns of San Mateo and Rodriguez, Rizal, together with Congresswoman Maan Teodoro and Mayor Marcy Teodoro; as well as the local officials from both towns in Rizal, such as Rodriguez Mayor Ronnie Evangelista and San Mateo Mayor Bartolome “Omie” Rivera Jr., among others. We also visited North Cotabato on 17 June, where we celebrated the 54th Araw ng Alamada led by Mayor Jesus Sacdalan and Cong. Joel Sacdalan and helped 840 farmers and 1,500 struggling residents in the town before going to Matalam to witness aspiring athletes in the Serbisyong Totoo Basketball Sports Clinic and to lead another distribution activity for 1,318 more residents from various sectors together with Gov. Lala Taliño-Mendoza. Across the country, my team aided indigent families and various sectors, including 136 in Samal, 33 in Balanga, and 82 in Limay, Bataan; 990 in Tagudin, Ilocos Sur; 150 in Damulog, Bukidnon; 350 in Iligan City; 100 in Tubod, Lanao del Norte; 550 in Malinao and Sto. Domingo, Albay; and two fire-hit households in Carcar City, Cebu. My team also attended the groundbreaking of the Super Health Center in Tiguma, Pagadian City. It is the fundamental right of every Filipino to receive proper medical care and social assistance from our government. I hope that with compassion for our struggling kababayans and the persistence to help uplift their lives, we can collectively ensure that the poor and most needy are not neglected as we continue our pursuit for progress and development. The post Prioritize the poor, bring gov’t services closer to needy appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
More Malasakit Centers: Bong Go welcomes program’s expansion
The 158th Malasakit Center in the country was launched at the Diosdado P. Macapagal Memorial Hospital in Guagua, Pampanga today, 9 June, bringing much-needed medical assistance and support to the local community. The Malasakit Center launch was attended by Pampanga Governor Dennis Pineda, Vice Governor Lilia Pineda and Health Secretary Dr. Teodoro Herbosa, among other notable guests. The Malasakit Center is the 89th of its kind in Luzon and the 15th in Region III. Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, the main proponent of the program who principally authored and sponsored the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, emphasized the critical role of the Malasakit Centers in delivering essential medical assistance for healthcare services to the Filipino population. “Bilang chair po ng Committee on Health sa Senado, ‘yan po ang advocacy ko, health po… kaya patuloy na prayoridad ko itong mga Malasakit Center,” said Go. He also highlighted the significance of the program in alleviating the financial burdens faced by Filipinos, stating, “Bakit natin papahirapan ang mga kapwa natin Pilipino? Pera naman po ninyo ‘yan, dapat po ibalik sa inyo sa pamamagitan ng mabilis na serbisyo. ‘Yan po ang Malasakit Center.” The concept of Malasakit Centers stemmed from Go’s personal experiences during his visits to hospitals and medical institutions across the country. Witnessing the struggles of patients, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds, in covering their medical expenses, he recognized the urgent need for a streamlined system of providing medical assistance. Since the inauguration of the first Malasakit Center in Cebu City in 2018, the number of centers has grown to 158 nationwide, benefitting over seven million individuals, according to the Department of Health. Each Malasakit Center serves as a one-stop shop for medical assistance, housing various government agencies such as the DOH, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. The Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, officially known as Republic Act No. 11463, was signed into law by former president Rodrigo Duterte to institutionalize the program. In Pampanga, other Malasakit Centers are located at Jose B. Lingad Memorial Regional Hospital and Overseas Filipino Workers Hospital and Diagnostic Center, both in San Fernando City; and at Rafael Lazatin Memorial Medical Center in Angeles City. In addition to Malasakit Centers, Go has been advocating for the establishment of Super Health Centers nationwide, particularly in remote communities. These centers aim to provide essential health services such as database management, outpatient care, birthing facilities, isolation units, diagnostic services (laboratory, X-ray, ultrasound), pharmacies and ambulatory surgical units. Other services available include eye, ear, nose, and throat care, oncology centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation centers, and telemedicine, which enables remote diagnosis and treatment of patients. Through the collective efforts of fellow lawmakers, sufficient funds had been allocated for 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and 322 in 2023. DOH, the lead implementing agency, identifies the strategic areas where they will be constructed. Go also sponsored in the Senate the establishment of Regional Specialty Centers, recognizing the critical need to establish said facilities in various regions to ensure that Filipinos have convenient access to the specialized medical services they require. On 31 May, the Senate ratified the Bicameral Conference Report on the Regional Specialty Centers Act, with Go serving as an author and the principal sponsor of the measure. Last January 26, Go was honored by the provincial government of Pampanga for advancing the province’s well-being and interests through its Resolution No. 7643-A. The post More Malasakit Centers: Bong Go welcomes program’s expansion appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
YOU GO, GIRLS!
Last Mother’s Day, 14 May 2023, marked an auspicious occasion, as Elevate AIDA (artificial intelligence and data analytics), a collaborative effort between Connected Women and the Aboitiz Foundation that began as a small training program for 60 women from Toledo City in Cebu, is now a community of 300 connected women with a goal of reaching 300,000 women in three years. Embodying the strength, resilience, and enduring love of mothers and daughters worldwide, the project aims to uplift the lives of Filipino women by offering them a chance to embrace socially responsible online work. Aboitiz Foundation, as part of the Aboitiz Group’s quest to become the Philippines’ first “techglomerate,” has set its sights on enabling women’s empowerment through the use of technology. Their goal aligns with Connected Women’s vision to help women gain access to digital skills, opening doors for financial independence, the pursuit of meaningful careers, and the ability to build a better future. [caption id="attachment_140031" align="aligncenter" width="804"] the Aboitiz Group further empowers women in tech as it scales its partnership with Connected Women into a national program. This continues the Group’s strong corporate social responsibility legacy and innovation advocacy. Upper photo: Shie, one of the beneficiaries, uses her computer to access the Elevate AIDA program.[/caption] “It was evident that our shared vision and commitment to empowering women and leveraging technology for positive change aligned perfectly. We look forward to continuing this incredible partnership with Connected Women and further amplifying our impact, as together, we co-create a resilient, empowered, and sustainable community,” said Aboitiz Foundation president Maribeth Marasigan. In the age of rapid technological progress, the Elevate AIDA project is perfectly timed as it seeks to prepare women for a future dominated by artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and data science. The graduates of the program are expected to gain market-aligned skills that will provide them access to long-term, flexible work and livelihood opportunities. This initiative is not just about empowering individuals; it’s about creating a ripple effect that touches families, communities, and even future generations. The program doesn’t stop at skills training. It also fosters a vibrant community of support, facilitating networking and connection. Through this collective journey, participants are not only trained with new skills but also find their place within a nurturing community. The collaboration between Connected Women and the Aboitiz Group transcends a simple partnership and spans across several of the conglomerate’s business units, who all share a deep-rooted commitment to empowering women and leveraging technology for positive change. Together with the Aboitiz Foundation, Aboitiz Data Innovation, Visayan Electric Company, Therma Visayas Inc., Aboitiz Land, and the Union Bank of the Philippines are all playing a role in expanding Elevate AIDA’s reach with speed, synergy, and scale. “This is a techglomerate in action,” said Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar, Aboitiz’s Chief Reputation and Sustainability Officer. “Our combined efforts are co-creating a resilient and sustainable community, one tech-empowered woman at a time.” Providing this opportunity to women, especially mothers, is vital in creating a more equitable future. Elevate AIDA seeks to harness the power of technology to enable women from all walks of life to thrive and grow, both personally and professionally. It’s about creating an inclusive future of work that allows women to build successful careers from their homes, earn decent wages and actively participate in the digital community. Kris Ann Marie Escopete, a 21-year-old mother from Carreta, Cebu, is the youngest among the mother-beneficiaries of Elevate AIDA. On the opportunity, she shared: “Dako kaayo akong pasalamat sa Elevate AIDA kay dako kaayo siyag tabang namong mga inahan, kay bisan pag naa rami sa among balay, makapanginabuhi gihapon mi bisan pag nagbantay mi sa among mga anak (I am very grateful to Elevate AIDA because it provides significant assistance to us mothers. Even when we are at home, we can still generate income while taking care of our children.)” Connected Women founder and head of Special Project Gina Romero neatly encapsulates the essence of the program, saying “We are celebrating not just your amazing journey as part of Elevate AIDA but also the important role you play as mothers. Working remotely and having flexibility is the future. Your courage in taking a step towards empowering and upskilling yourself more for technology will not go unrewarded.” To date, Elevate AIDA has empowered over 50,000 Filipino women with digital skills that have opened job opportunities. The program is an inspiring collaboration and a testament to the reality that nobody can achieve greatness alone. Elevate AIDA not only celebrates the incredible potential of women everywhere, but the immense power of people and partnerships that make true equality real and possible. The post YOU GO, GIRLS! appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
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......»»
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. The post Bridging healthcare gap appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
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......»»
Contact tracers in Cebu City finally get salary, health care workers gets 2nd tranche of assistance
CEBU CITY, Philippines — The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) contact tracers in Cebu City are finally getting their long-awaited salaries after months of delay or since August 2020. The Cebu City Emergency Operations Center (EOC) revealed that the city government had started the release of the salaries of the contact tracers for the months of […] The post Contact tracers in Cebu City finally get salary, health care workers gets 2nd tranche of assistance appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Health care professionals in Cebu City private hospitals need assistance, says Cimatu
CEBU CITY, Philippines — Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu said that the health care professionals in private hospitals here desperately need assistance. Cimatu, the Interagency Task Force (IATF) overseer in Cebu, said on Tuesday, July 7, 2020, that he checked on at least nine private hospitals in Cebu City to appraise the status of these hospitals […] The post Health care professionals in Cebu City private hospitals need assistance, says Cimatu appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Over 40 defective weighing scales seized in Carbon Market
CEBU CITY, Philippines — The Office of the City Markets (OCM) of the Cebu City Government has confiscated over 40 defective weighing scales in Carbon Public Market as of March 21. Led by Market Administrator Robert Barquilla, the operation, dubbed “Operation Timbangan,” aims to ensure accurate measurements for customers. Barquilla, with assistance from Task Force.....»»
OFW aspirants told: Engage with licensed recruitment agencies only
CEBU CITY, Philippines — The regional director of the Department of Migrant Workers in Central Visayas (DMW-7) warned aspiring Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) to engage with only legitimate and licensed recruitment agencies. Lawyer Karl Arriola, DMW-7 director, told CDN Digital that even if he was a lawyer, he still subscribed to the doctors’ advice: Prevention.....»»
DSWD introduces 3 schemes to distribute financial aid
LAPU-LAPU CITY, Cebu — To fast-track the distribution of financial assistance to social pension beneficiaries, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) issued Memorandum Circular No. 17, introducing three delivery schemes. This includes cash advances of special disbursing officers (SDOs) of the agency, door-to-door delivery for beneficiaries in critical condition, and the transfer of.....»»
This is your sign to book that Nail Appointment at SM Seaside!
Contrary to popular belief, beauty is not only skin-deep. There is a powerful sense of worth one can derive from beautifying oneself, and in the spirit of National Women’s Month, women can take back their power and indulge in an entire day of self-care and pampering with the girlies at SM Seaside City Cebu. After.....»»
Large king cobra killed in Asturias, Cebu
CEBU CITY, Philippines — A large king cobra, locally known as banakon, was sighted and killed in Barangay Ubogon, Asturias, a town in northern Cebu. In a Facebook post on March 6, a member of the Philippine Snake ID page shared an image of a deceased cobra, seeking assistance from the public in identifying the.....»»
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.....»»
Lapu-Lapu demolition victims receive cash assistance from LGU
LAPU-LAPU CITY, Cebu — Around 318 families, who were victims of demolitions last year, received financial assistance from the Lapu-Lapu City Government on Wednesday, February 21, 2024. Of the said number, 214 families received P21,000 each, while 104 families received P20,000 each. Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Junard “Ahong” Chan said that this was in line with.....»»
Scholarship for agriculture students pushed
LAPU-LAPU CITY, Cebu- Recognizing the vital role of the agriculture sector in food sustainability and local farmer empowerment, a Cebu City councilor proposed an ordinance to provide scholarship grants to students who would pursue agriculture-related programs in college. The proposed legislation, titled “An Ordinance Granting Educational Scholarship Assistance to Qualified Cebu City Residents Pursuing Agriculture-Related.....»»
Mayor Chan promises legal assistance to swindling victims
LAPU-LAPU CITY, CEBU — The Lapu-Lapu City Government, through the City Legal Office (CLO), promised to provide legal assistance against an alleged swindler, along with her accomplice, after they repeatedly sold lots with questionable status in Barangay Canjulao. On Monday, February 19, the alleged swindler faced around 15 individuals who were her victims, with the.....»»
Spot a snake? Contact the barangay first for assistance
CEBU CITY, Philippines —The sightings of king cobras and other types of snakes have become prevalent in Cebu recently. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources in Central Visayas (DENR-7) has previously stated that among the reasons for the increasing sightings in Cebu are the mating season and the destruction of their habitat. The agency.....»»