Read this in The Manila Times digital edition.
SEN. Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go spearheaded a relief operation for indigents in Pasig City on Tuesday, May 23.
He was joined by local officials, including Vice Mayor Robert "Dodot" Jaworski, Jr., Councilors Eric Gonzales and Syvel Asilo, among others, together with representatives from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
"I am busy going around to extend help to our countrymen. I am here in Pasig to help and provide solutions to their problems, to help the sick, especially the poor, and leave behind a smile at a time of their misery," said Go in an interview after the event.
The senator led the activity at the Maybunga covered court where he personally assisted 1,000 disadvantaged residents.
Addressing the public, he emphasized the need for unity during trying times and the importance of extending a helping hand to those in need.
All resident-beneficiaries received relief items such as grocery packs, snacks, masks, vitamins, and shirts while there are select recipients of bicycles, shoes, mobile phones, watches, and balls for basketball and volleyball.
The DSWD also extended financial assistance to each qualified individual.
Continuing his remarks, Go, as chairman of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, highlighted the continuing operations of Malasakit Centers in delivering health services to Filipinos nationwide.
These centers bring together key government agencies under one roof, providing a convenient and efficient means for individuals to access medical assistance programs.
Go initiated the Malasakit Centers in 2018. It was later institutionalized under Republic Act 11463 in 2019. Since then, the program has helped more than seven million poor patients, according to the Department of Health (DoH).
The Act mandates all DoH-run hospitals, plus the Philippine General Hospital, to establish their own centers that would provide convenient access to medical assistance programs by the government. Other public hospitals may also establish their own centers provided they meet a standard set of criteria and guarantee the sustainability of their operations.
Still in line with his advocacy to bolster the health sector in the city, Go, who is also vice chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, supported several projects for Rizal Medical Center, including its improvement, the construction of a seven-story multispecialty building, and the acquisition of medical equipment.
Last April 14, Go also visited the city and provided support for fire victims.