Daily Tribune‘Let’s not forget our minimum wage earners. Every peso is crucial to them. When prices rise, their daily earnings are no longer sufficient. We need to focus on controlling the inflation rate and also look into increasing the wages of our workers’
Senator Christopher ‘Bong’ Go (Photo courtesy of SBG)
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go has urgently called on key government agencies, including the Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Social Welfare and Development, and Department of Health, to address the pressing issues of rising inflation and increased spending on basic commodities affecting the Filipino populace.
This call to action comes in light of a recent survey that paints a concerning picture of the economic hardships faced by Filipino households.
According to a Pulse Asia survey conducted from 10 to 14 September, 95 percent of Filipino households have reported increased spending on food in the past three months. Despite this uptick in expenses, 53 percent of these households have actually reduced their food consumption.
The survey also highlighted that 83 percent of respondents spent more specifically on rice, and 61 percent identified increased spending on non-rice food items. Additionally, the survey found that a "sizable majority" or 62 percent reported increased spending on electricity.
"Let's not forget our minimum wage earners. Every peso is crucial to them. When prices rise, their daily earnings are no longer sufficient. We need to focus on controlling the inflation rate and also look into increasing the wages of our workers," he added.
Go called on the DTI to focus on monitoring the rising prices of goods and services while providing interventions to control or at least mitigate its impact on the lives of the poor.
"The DTI should be at the forefront of this battle against inflation. Immediate measures must be taken to stabilize prices," he said.
The senator also urged DSWD to continue and even expand programs like the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation that aims to help qualified indigent families and victims of crises make ends meet through immediate financial support.
Meanwhile, Go personally paid tribute to educators in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu during their World Teachers' Day Celebration at Hoops Dome on Friday, 6 October
Go acknowledged the vital role played by teachers in society and expressed his deep appreciation for their sacrifices, especially during the challenging times when the education landscape has been impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic.
The event was organized by the local government and was also attended by Congresswoman Cynthia "Cindi" Chan, Mayor Junard "Ahong" Chan and Vice Mayor Celedonio "Celsi" Sitoy, among others. A total of 4,000 teachers from 97 schools were present during the event.
As part of his appreciation, Go provided gift packs, masks, and snacks to all teachers present while he also provided balls for basketball and volleyball, shirts and vitamins for the schools. He also gave away bicycles, shoes, and mobile phones to select recipients.
