The Manila Times
SEN. Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go has called for stronger grassroots governance as communities brace for the potential impact of a global oil crisis driven by the war in the Middle East. In a video message delivered during the Liga ng mga Barangay (LNB) Masbate Provincial Chapter Annual Congress 2026 at the Crown Legacy Hotel last Monday, Go emphasized the critical role of barangay (village) officials in delivering frontline services and responding to crises. “Diligence, compassion, and service are all I can offer you. I am not a politician who makes promises, I do my job for Filipinos,” Go said. Barangay frontliners recognized Go lauded barangay officials as essential pillars of governance, noting their role in addressing everyday community concerns — from health services to dispute resolution. “You are the heroes of the pandemic. The national government would have suffered if it were not for you,” he said, urging continued dedication to public service, emphasizing that barangay leaders serve as the first line of government response, particularly during emergencies and economic disruptions. Push for local governance reforms The senator highlighted several legislative measures to strengthen barangay institutions and improve public service delivery. Among these is Republic Act (RA) 11462, which postponed barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections to allow officials more time to implement programs for their constituents. Go also reiterated his support for digital transformation in government through RA 112254, which seeks to enhance efficiency, transparency, and accessibility of public services through digitalization. In addition, he refiled Senate Bill (SB) 178, or the proposed Magna Carta for Barangays, which seeks to grant barangay officials benefits comparable to those received by regular government employees. “Captains, I will fight for you always. We have fought for the postponement of the barangay elections three times. And I also filed the Magna Carta for Barangay Officials,” Go said. He also filed SB 412, or the Magna Carta for Barangay Health Workers, which seeks to provide job security, compensation, and benefits to community health workers. Preparing for economic pressures Amid rising concerns over a possible global oil supply disruption, Go called on barangay officials to remain accessible and responsive to constituents, particularly vulnerable sectors. “I want to ask barangay officials — please keep your offices open for our citizens. Let’s prioritize the poor who have nowhere else to go but the government,” he said. Analysts have warned that escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East could disrupt global oil supply chains, potentially driving up fuel prices and affecting basic goods — impacts that are often felt most acutely at the community level. Continued support for local leaders Go also acknowledged local officials present at the event, including Liga ng mga Barangay Masbate President Eric Castillo and Masbate Governor Richard Kho. He concluded by assuring barangay leaders of his continued support. “Just call me 'Kuya Bong Go' when we meet. I will continue to serve my countrymen to the best of my ability, because it is my habit to serve,” he said.
Go to News Site