Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, known for his advocacies aimed at assisting vulnerable sectors, dispatched his Malasakit team to Bacnotan, La Union, on Thursday, December 5. The outreach program focused on aiding displaced workers and underscored the senator’s push for inclusive economic recovery.
In his video message, Senator Go emphasized the importance of sustained government support for the country’s most vulnerable. He called for stronger inter-agency collaboration to ensure the effective implementation of programs aimed at uplifting marginalized communities.
“Ako po’y isang simpleng probinsyano na nabigyan ng pagkakataon na makapagserbisyo sa kapwa Pilipino. Huwag po kayong magpasalamat sa akin. Ako po ang dapat magpasalamat sa inyo sa tiwala na ibinigay ninyo sa akin,” Go said.
He further expressed his dedication to serving the Filipino people, saying, “Hindi ko sasayangin ang pagkakataong ibinigay n’yo sa akin at magseserbisyo ako sa abot ng akin makakaya. ‘Yan po ang pwede kong ialay sa mga Pilipino, ang aking kasipagan sa pagtrabaho dahil ang bisyo ko ang magserbisyo.”
The program was conducted in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the local government of Bacnotan. Beneficiaries received temporary employment opportunities through the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program.
Senator Go praised DOLE’s proactive efforts and underscored the importance of empowering vulnerable sectors. In line with his vision for inclusive livelihood support, he highlighted his proposed Senate Bill No. 420, or the Rural Employment Assistance Program (REAP).
REAP seeks to provide short-term employment to economically disadvantaged individuals, enabling them to support their families while contributing to community projects. If enacted, the program is expected to boost the resilience of rural communities.
Additionally, Go co-authored and co-sponsored SBN 2534, which proposes a PhP 100 increase in the daily minimum wage across the country.
The senator then thanked Bacnotan Mayor Divine Fontanilla and other local officials for their tireless service to their constituents. He commended their efforts in ensuring that government initiatives effectively reach those in need.
During the event held at Bacnotan Covered Court, 98 beneficiaries received essential items such as face masks, shirts, vitamins, fans, basketballs, and volleyballs from Senator Go. Select recipients were also provided with mobile phones and shoes.
Known as “Mr. Malasakit” for his commitment to health and social reforms, Senator Go reiterated his dedication to helping Filipinos nationwide. “Kahit saang sulok kayo ng Pilipinas, tutulong ako sa abot ng aking makakaya. Iyan po ang aking ipinangako sa Pilipino. Hindi ko po matiis na nakaupo lang sa opisina habang ‘yung mga kababayan natin dito ay nangangailangan po ng tulong,” he concluded.