The Manila Times
FOLLOWING the observance of Holy Week, Sen. Christopher “Bong” Go emphasized the importance of safeguarding both life and health as he led a relief operation for fire victims in Barangay Tugatog on Monday, April 6. The outreach activity, held at the Tugatog Barangay Hall, benefited 15 individuals affected by a recent fire incident. Go’s team distributed essential assistance, including financial aid, water containers, food packs, vitamins, clothing, and other basic supplies aimed at helping families recover from the disaster. “The life and health of every Filipino is important to me. We can earn money and replace material things, but life cannot be bought,” Go said in a message, underscoring the Filipino value of community solidarity. Legislative efforts In the wake of the incident, Go reiterated the need for stronger fire prevention and response systems. He highlighted Republic Act (RA) 11589, a measure he principally authored and co-sponsored, which seeks to enhance the country’s firefighting capabilities through modern equipment, upgraded training, and institutional reforms. Heat health advisory With summer temperatures intensifying, the senator also raised concerns about heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke. He urged the public to take preventive steps, including staying hydrated, limiting sun exposure, and seeking prompt medical care when symptoms arise. Go also called on local government units to strengthen public awareness campaigns on heat preparedness to reduce health risks during extreme weather conditions. Health care access Serving as vice chairman of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, Go encouraged residents with medical needs to take advantage of government health services, particularly through the Malasakit Centers program. Institutionalized under RA 11463, the initiative provides a one-stop shop for medical assistance from various government agencies. According to the Department of Health, the program has assisted over 17 million Filipinos through 167 centers nationwide. In Malabon, these centers operate at Ospital ng Malabon and San Lorenzo Ruiz General Hospital. The senator also cited the continued rollout of Super Health Centers, which offer primary care services, consultations, and early disease detection, in coordination with local government units and the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation’s Konsulta program. Health reforms Go further pointed to RA 11959, which he sponsored, mandating the creation of specialized health care units — including mental health services — in Department of Health regional hospitals to improve access to specialized care. He also noted his role in the development of San Lorenzo Ruiz General Hospital into a modern 200-bed facility. The project began with a groundbreaking ceremony in 2019 attended by former president Rodrigo Duterte.
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