Bong Go defends Malasakit Centers

MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Christopher “Bong” Go denied yesterday allegations that he was using for political ends the “Malasakit Centers” being put up in many parts of the country.

In a privilege speech, Go hit back at Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman, who earlier questioned the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office’s funding of the centers, a pet project of the senator.

“Congressman Lagman, do not be anti-poor. The people’s money must rightfully be returned to them,” Go said in Filipino. “You should be ashamed to your constituents. You should be ashamed to the millions of Filipinos who got help from this program.”

Malasakit Centers are a “one-stop shop” facility where Filipinos seeking medical assistance could be served by several government agencies in one place instead of them going to various offices.

Go said residents of Albay were benefiting from the program with Lagman’s son Vice Gov. Grex Lagman attending the opening of such a center in the province.

He said he received reports that those confined in government hospitals in Albay were required to visit the congressman just to get some benefits or assistance so that he could “show to their faces that it’s you (Lagman) giving assistance.”

“That’s why it truly saddens me that I’m the one accused of partisan political activity when I’ve never asked any endorsement, identification or privilege care from people that ask for help,” Go said.

He challenged Lagman to put up his own facilities called “maramot (selfish)” and “manhid (callous)” centers.

He said the program was designed to streamline and expedite the delivery of medical services to Filipinos, especially to those who need them most. 

“It is one of the solutions of the Duterte administration to provide quick and quality access to healthcare to all Filipinos, regardless of their age, sex, ethnic background, religion – and let me emphasize this – regardless of their political affiliation,” Go said.