In the wake of a devastating vehicular accident in Antipas, North Cotabato, that claimed the lives of 17 individuals last Monday, March 25, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has stepped forward to offer assistance to some families of the victims.
The fatal incident occurred when a van carrying several passengers was struck by a ten-wheeler truck, leading to a fire that resulted in the tragic loss of lives. Authorities have reported that the truck descended a hill when the driver lost control, leading to a catastrophic collision.
On Wednesday, March 27, the senator’s Malasakit Team provided financial assistance and grocery packs to the 13 bereaved families affected by this incident. Senator Go expressed his heartfelt condolences and gave the families his continued support, especially during these challenging times. “Sa mga mahal na pamilya ng mga biktima ng trahedya, nais ko pong iparating ang aking taos-pusong pakikiramay sa inyong lahat sa napakabigat na pagsubok na ito,” Go expressed.
“Walang halaga ng tulong ang makakabalik sa mga buhay na nawala, ngunit nandito kami upang suportahan kayo sa bawat paraan na aming magagawa sa abot ng aming makakaya. Sa panahong ito ng pangangailangan, huwag po kayong mag-atubiling lumapit sa akin. Magtulungan tayo upang malampasan ang pagsubok na ito,” said Senator Go, known as Mr. Malasakit for his commitment to assisting those in need.
The truck driver involved in the accident is currently under police custody as investigations continue to ascertain the full details of the incident.
Meanwhile, as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, Go offered further assistance to family members who may need medical-related assistance. Go encouraged the beneficiaries to visit the nearest Malasakit Center located at the Cotabato Provincial Hospital in Kidapawan City if they need medical assistance from the government.
Signed into law in 2019, the Malasakit Centers ensure that poor and indigent patients have convenient access to medical assistance programs that concerned agencies offer. Go is the principal author and sponsor of the Act. Based on data from DOH, 161 Malasakit Centers nationwide have helped more than ten million Filipinos nationwide.
“Sa mga mahal na pamilya ng mga biktima ng trahedya sa Antipas, North Cotabato, nais ko pong iparating ang aking taos-pusong pakikiramay sa inyong lahat sa napakabigat na pagsubok na ito. Walang salita ang makakapawi ng sakit, ngunit nais ko pong malaman ninyo na nandito ako at handang magbigay ng tulong sa abot ng aking makakaya. Sa panahong ito ng pangangailangan, huwag po kayong mag-atubiling lumapit sa akin. Kasama ninyo ako sa inyong pagluluksa at sa muling pagbangon,” he said.