Go: Government to fast-track Surigao runway rehab

SURIGAO CITY, Philippines — Special Assistant to the President Christopher “Bong” Go vowed yesterday to help fast-track the release of funds for the repair and rehabilitation of the airport runway in this city that was damaged by an earthquake last February.

“I will talk right away to Transportation Secretary (Arthur) Tugade to address this issue and to speed up the repair. I earlier saw that there is an ongoing repair in the runway,” Go said during the 34th Bonok-Bonok Maradjaw Karadjaw Festival in this city on Sunday.

The Department of Transportation said funding for the repair of the runway was released last April. At least 1,060 meters of the 1,600-meter runway have been restored. 

Go said he would also talk with Public Works and Highways Secretary Mark Villar to raise concerns of Surigaonons on the ongoing Dinagat-Surigao Bridge Link project.

“We will be having our Cabinet meeting this Tuesday. I will talk to Secretary Villar to raise your concern with the bridge and to fast-track everything. I promise to provide immediate action. That’s why I will be talking to the department heads,” Go said.

In his speech, he cited the rich culture and tradition of residents and lauded the efforts of the police, military and city government officials to keep their communities safe, orderly and secure.

Go said he is also planning to put up a Malasakit Center in Surigao that will cater and give priority to senior citizens and persons with disabilities.