Senator Christopher "Bong" Go assisted displaced workers in Garcia Hernandez, Bohol on Thursday, 26 October, as part of his initiative to support efforts to fast-track and promote inclusive economic recovery.

Go's team, in coordination with Mayor Jess Baja, conducted a relief activity at Barangay Cayam Gymnasium where they provided snacks, shirts, and balls for basketball and volleyball to 209 displaced workers.

The beneficiaries also qualified for livelihood support from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) after they have completed DOLE's Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/ Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program.

"Maraming salamat, Senator Bong Go sa inyong ipinaabot na tulong sa bayan ng Garcia Hernandez at sa programa na TUPAD. Maraming maraming salamat, senator," Mayor Baja said during the gathering.

For his part, Go emphasized the critical need to protect the well-being of marginalized laborers, particularly those residing in rural areas who require more economic opportunities.

With this, Go filed Senate Bill No. (SBN) 420 which proposes the establishment of a system aimed at providing short-term employment opportunities for eligible individuals from underprivileged rural households. Under the proposed legislation, the Rural Employment Assistance Program (REAP) would be created within the DOLE.

If this bill is enacted into law, REAP's primary objective would be to offer temporary job opportunities to individuals who meet the criteria for economic disadvantage, poverty, displacement, or seasonal employment.

"Patuloy po tayong magtulungan upang mas mapabuti pa ang kalagayan ng ating mga disadvantaged at displaced workers. Magkasama tayo sa layuning ito na makabuo ng mas maginhawa at mas matatag na lipunan para sa lahat ng Pilipino," Go said.

Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, offered additional assistance to residents with medical concerns. He advised them to visit the Governor Celestino Gallares Memorial Hospital (GCGMH) in Tagbilaran City or the Don Emilio del Valle Memorial Hospital in Ubay, where there are Malasakit Centers ready to help them should they need assistance with their medical bills.