Bong Go extends aid to Cebu City indigents

CEBU, Philippines — Senator Christopher "Bong" Go once again demonstrated his commitment to serving marginalized Filipinos by assisting indigents from various sectors in Cebu City on Tuesday, October 22.

As part of his ongoing efforts to uplift the lives of the less fortunate, Go emphasized the need for sustained government support for pro-poor programs that address the basic needs of underserved communities.

The event was held at the respective gymnasiums of Barangays Cogon Pardo and Zapatera, where Go’s Malasakit Team provided snacks, vitamins, shirts, basketballs, and volleyballs to 947 indigents. There were also select recipients of shoes and mobile phones.

Meanwhile, through the efforts of Vice Mayor Donaldo “Dondon” Hontiveros, the beneficiaries received financial assistance from the national government.

In his video message, Go expressed his dedication to helping the poor and ensuring that they have access to essential services.

“Sa panahon ngayon, ang pinakamahalaga ay matulungan ang ating mga kababayan na hirap sa buhay. Kaya naman patuloy kong isusulong ang mga programang makakapagbigay ng ginhawa sa kanila,” Go said.

He reiterated the importance of government initiatives aimed at alleviating poverty, particularly in times of crisis. “Kami ay nandito upang tumulong sa abot ng aming makakaya. Ipagpapatuloy ko ang aking bisyo na magserbisyo,” Go assured the beneficiaries.

A staunch advocate of healthcare access for all, Go, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, reminded those in need of medical assistance to visit the Malasakit Center located at Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center (VSMMC), St. Anthony Mother and Child Hospital, and Cebu City Medical Center, all in Cebu City.

Established through Republic Act 11463, which Go principally authored and sponsored, the Malasakit Centers aim to consolidate all government medical assistance programs under one roof, making it easier for indigent patients to avail of much-needed healthcare services.

Since its inception, the Malasakit Center program has grown to 166 centers nationwide, serving over 15 million Filipinos. Go highlighted that these centers play a crucial role in ensuring that no Filipino is left behind when it comes to accessing quality healthcare.

Meanwhile, there are other Malasakit Centers at Cebu Provincial Hospital in Carcar City, Lapu-Lapu City District Hospital, Eversley Childs Sanitarium and General Hospital in Mandaue City, and Talisay District Hospital in Talisay City.

Go concluded his message by encouraging the beneficiaries to remain hopeful despite the challenges they face. “Sa kabila ng mga pagsubok, palagi tayong magtulungan, magmalasakit sa kapwa, upang malagpasan natin ang anumang hamon,” Go said, reaffirming his commitment to advocating for the welfare of the underprivileged.  (CEBU NEWS)