MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Bong Go has conveyed his gratitude to persons and entities responsible for the smooth and successful conduct of the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections (BSKE).
Go exercised his right to vote in the barangay elections at the Buhangin Central Elementary School SPED Center in Davao City.
“We thank the teachers, principals and school officials who volunteered to help so that we can have an orderly and peaceful election,” he said in Filipino. “Now that the elections are finished, let us unite for the benefit of our communities. To those whose terms have ended, those whose terms have yet to start and those who will continue to serve our communities, thank you for your dedication in serving our country,”
Go also took the opportunity to remind newly elected barangay officials of their fundamental duty to prioritize the needs and welfare of their constituents.
“Congratulations to all the winners of the recent barangay and SK elections. I challenge you to always prioritize the interest and welfare of your constituents with love and concern,” Go said.
“As you enter public service, always remember that public office is a public trust. Take good care of the trust of our countrymen.” He underscored the value of entrusting responsible individuals, who genuinely care for the Filipino people, with barangay positions.
Go then elaborated on the critical role played by the barangays in the delivery of services in the communities, being frontliners and the first point of contact for citizens in times of need.
“You are the ones who know the everyday needs of your constituents – from their hospital bills, funerals, fire, floods, earthquakes, security, etc. As your senator, I will help in whatever way I can,” he added.
When asked about the conduct of elections, Go provided positive feedback on the peaceful nature of the elections in Davao City. He further expressed hope that the citizens have chosen candidates who are responsible and genuinely concerned about the welfare of the people.
In a bid to strengthen barangay governance, Go has filed Senate Bill (SBN) 197, or the Magna Carta for Barangays.
He said policymakers must first be able to strengthen and support the basic unit of government at the barangay level to be able to promote good governance and bring public services closer to those in need.
“If this proposal is passed into law, barangay officials may hopefully be given benefits similar to regular government employees. Moreover, if approved, it also aims to allocate sufficient resources for the improvements of public services at the barangay level,” he explained.
Meanwhile, Go also filed SBN 427 or the Barangay Health Workers Compensation Bill. If enacted into law, the proposal seeks to provide barangay health workers a monthly honorarium, coupled with other benefits such as allowances, job security, consistent training and opportunities for skill development.
Go also continues to exert efforts to bridge the gap between government employees serving at the grassroots and those at the national level.
“Barangay services are very important, they bring the service closer to the citizens because not all of those can be delivered by the LGU, the mayor and the governor. It is important that good governance starts at the barangay level,” he said.