BONG GO VISITS MALASAKIT CENTER AT TARLAC PROVINCIAL HOSPITAL, LEADS FEEDING INITIATIVE FOR PATIENTS AND FAMILIES

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go conducted a monitoring visit of the Malasakit Center at Tarlac Provincial Hospital on Thursday, November 14, reaffirming his commitment to accessible healthcare and further extending support to patients and their families with a feeding initiative.

Joined by Governor Susan Yap and Tarlac Provincial Hospital officials, among others, this event brought together patients, healthcare workers, and community members who expressed gratitude for the assistance provided through both the Malasakit Center and the senator’s feeding program.

During his visit, Senator Go highlighted the role of the Malasakit Center in making healthcare more accessible for underprivileged Filipinos. Established under the Republic Act No. 11463, which Senator Go principally authored and sponsored.

Malasakit Centers are one-stop shops that bring together various government agencies such as the Department of Health (DOH), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO).

By streamlining services, these centers simplify the process for patients needing financial assistance, particularly for costly medical treatments and hospitalizations. “Each Malasakit Center is a testament to our commitment to improve healthcare access for every Filipino, especially those who struggle the most,” Go emphasized.

“Huwag ho kayong mahihiyang lumapit sa mga Malasakit Centers. Para po yan sa Pilipino. Nalulungkot po ako tuwing may mga nag-aalangan magpatingin sa doktor dahil natatakot sila sa babayaran sa hospital. Pangalagaan niyo po ang inyong kalusugan at ang Malasakit Center ay handang tumulong sa inyo,” Go said.

There are now 166 Malasakit Centers nationwide. According to the DOH, it has already helped more than 15 million Filipinos.

The senator’s feeding initiative was also met with appreciation, as patients and their families benefited from the nourishing meals provided during his visit.

During the said visit and feeding program, Go and his malasakit Team distributed balls and shirts to patients, watchers and hospital staff.

Senator Go noted that the feeding program aims to provide a moment of comfort for those enduring long hospital stays and to support families who often bear the weight of caregiving. “When we provide for our fellow Filipinos in their time of need, we are strengthening the bonds of compassion and bayanihan,” he remarked.

The senator’s feeding programs have helped numerous families across the Philippines, particularly those in underserved areas. By supporting patients’ nutritional needs, this initiative also aligns with Go’s broader advocacy for public health, aiming to ensure that families facing health challenges can feel cared for and supported.

Through the Malasakit Centers and programs like the feeding initiative, Senator Go remains committed to uplifting the lives of Filipino families, ensuring they feel the government’s care and compassion in times of need.

Before his Malasakit Center visit, Go assisted indigents in Tarlac City in coordination with the provincial government of Tarlac.