Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, an advocate of accessible healthcare and improved welfare for Filipinos, personally inspected the newly established Super Health Center in San Mateo, Rizal, on Friday, December 20, underscoring its critical role in providing convenient access to medical services for residents.
The senator, who chairs the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, emphasized the importance of strengthening the country’s health sector as a means of building resilient and self-reliant communities.
“Nalulungkot po ako tuwing may mga nag-aalangan magpatingin sa doktor dahil natatakot sa babayaran sa hospital. Pangalagaan po natin ang kalusugan dahil katumbas ito ng buhay ng bawat Pilipino. Ilapit natin ang serbisyong pangkalusugan sa mga nangangailangan nito,” he said.
Funding has been secured to establish over 700 Super Health Centers nationwide to bring primary care to the grassroots, thanks to collaborative efforts of Senator Go, fellow lawmakers, the DOH, led by Secretary Teodoro “Ted” Herbosa, and local government units. In Rizal alone, 11 centers are funded.
Recognizing their dedication and tireless efforts, especially during the pandemic, the senator provided tokens of support to the barangay health workers in attendance as a gesture of gratitude for their service to the community.
The senator further highlighted the significance of Super Health Centers, which aim to bring essential healthcare services closer to communities, particularly remote or underserved areas. These centers provide a range of services, including consultations, diagnostics, and preventive care, reducing the burden on larger hospitals while addressing the immediate needs of residents.
He also reiterated his commitment to the country’s health sector, noting that his legislative efforts focus on making healthcare services more accessible, affordable, and efficient for all Filipinos.
Complementing his healthcare advocacy, Senator Go also highlighted the significance of food security in promoting overall well-being. By partnering with the local government to provide food assistance, he aimed to address the dual challenges of hunger and health issues that many families face.
Senator Go also coordinated with the local government, including Governor Nina Ynares, Mayor Omie Rivera, and town councilors, to distribute 3 kilograms of rice and other essential relief items, such as grocery packs, snacks, vitamins, and shirts, to 1,000 indigent residents at the Ynarez Plaza.
There were also select recipients of basketballs, volleyballs, bicycles, watches, shoes, and mobile phones. This relief initiative aimed to alleviate hunger and provide immediate support during the holiday season.
“Hindi ko po sasayangin yung pagkakataon na ibinigay niyo sa akin. Magtatrabaho po ako para sa Pilipino. Iyan ang aking maiaalay sa inyo — ang kasipagan ko sa pagtatrabaho at pagtulong sa abot ng aking makakaya. Bisyo ko ang magserbisyo at naniniwala ako na ang serbjsyo sa tao ay serbisyo sa Diyos,” he underscored.
Senator Go expressed his gratitude to the local government of San Mateo for their collective efforts in ensuring the well-being of their constituents.
“Maraming salamat sa inyong malasakit at pagtutulungan para sa ating mga kababayan. Patuloy ninyong maaasahan ang suporta ko hindi lamang sa San Mateo, kundi sa buong probinsya ng Rizal. Sama-sama nating itaguyod ang mas malusog at mas maayos na komunidad,” he said being an adopted son of CALABARZON.
Senator Go also traveled to Binangonan, where he spearheaded a similar relief operation for more indigent families. The senator then made his way to Pasig City, where he met with barangay captains from the city’s various communities. The meet-and-greet provided an opportunity for the senator to listen to the concerns of local leaders and discuss collaborative solutions to improve public service delivery.
“Maraming salamat po at tandaan po natin na isang beses lang po tayo dumaan sa mundong ito. Kung ano man po ang kabutihan na maaari nating gawin sa ating kapwa, gawin na po natin ngayon. Patuloy po akong magseserbisyo dahil naniniwala ako na ang serbisyo sa tao ay serbisyo din sa Diyos,” concluded Senator Go.