Bong Go continues push for inclusive economic recovery

MANILA, Philippines — A day after filing his candidacy for the 2025 senatorial elections, Sen. Bong Go continued his commitment to help those in need by personally extending assistance to 1,124 indigents in Caraga, Davao Oriental, composed of farmers, fisherfolk and senior citizens.

Held last Friday at the Barangay Poblacion evacuation center, the event was made possible through Go’s partnership with Vice Mayor Melody Anne Benitez and Councilors Jemaika Balante, Belshazzar Sobrecarey and Orly Benaning.

Go, long known for his dedication to help ensure that no Filipino is left behind, has always been a strong advocate for various vulnerable sectors of society.

Through the efforts of Go, local officials and the national government, each disadvantaged resident received financial assistance.

They also received basic goods like grocery packs, shirts, masks, vitamins and snacks.

There were also select recipients of basketballs, volleyballs, bicycles, mobile phones, shoes and a watch.

“The farmers and fisherfolk are the backbone of our nation’s food supply and our senior citizens are the guardians of our values and history,” Go said.

He also stressed that these sectors are crucial to the town’s progress, which is why he has supported numerous legislative measures aimed at improving their welfare and ensuring they have access to essential services.

Last February, Republic Act (RA) 11982 or the Amendments to the Centenarian Act was signed into law by President Marcos, which Go co-authored and co-sponsored in the Senate.

The law now includes cash gifts for Filipinos aged 80, 85, 90 and 95, amounting to P10,000 each, in addition to the existing P100,000 cash gift for centenarians.

Likewise, Go previously co-authored RA 11916 or the Act Increasing the Social Pension of Indigent Senior Citizens which amended RA 7432, the first Senior Citizens Act.

Go was one of the authors of RA 11901, or the Agriculture, Fisheries and Rural Development Financing Enhancement Act of 2022, which enhanced the financial structure supporting agriculture, fisheries and rural development.

This law is designed to offer improved access to credit for rural communities, particularly benefiting farmers, fisherfolk and agri-based workers.

Moreover, Go served as a co-sponsor and co-author in the Senate of RA 11953, also known as the New Agrarian Emancipation Act. This legislation condones loans accrued by agrarian reform beneficiaries, encompassing the related interests, penalties and surcharges.

“Do not thank us. In fact, we should be the one thanking you because you have given us an opportunity to bring public services to you. I promise that I will not waste this opportunity that you have given to me,” Go said.

His candidacy for the upcoming elections signals his intent to continue being the champion of the poor, and events like this reaffirm his commitment to providing meaningful support where it is needed most.

“My priority is to continuously support the poor, especially those who are hopeless and helpless because that is my ‘vice,’ to serve,” Go said, reassuring the residents that his vision of governance is one that puts every Filipino’s needs at the forefront.

Go proceeded to inspect the site of the ongoing construction of the Super Health Center in the town.