Increasing HIV cases among teens alarm Go

Senator Christopher "Bong" Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health, expressed concern over the reported alarming increase in human immunodeficiency virus cases in the Philippines, particularly among teenagers.

Responding to questions about the increasing HIV infections in an interview after aiding fire victims in Davao City last Friday, 17 November, Go emphasized the need for a comprehensive and multi-disciplinary approach to tackle this growing health crisis.

He highlighted the importance of educating the youth about sex, teenage pregnancy, illegal drugs, and alcoholism as a primary step in addressing the issue.

The senator pointed out the necessity of treating HIV as both a health and behavioral concern. He noted that Department of Health (DoH) programs, including hospitals and Regional Specialty Centers focusing on infectious diseases, play a crucial role.

Go principally sponsored and is one of the authors of Republic Act 11959, also known as the Regional Specialty Centers Act, which was signed into law by President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos, Jr., on 24 August.

The law mandates the establishment of regional specialty centers within existing DoH regional hospitals. It stands as a testament to the commitment of the government to uplift the nation's health infrastructure.

In Mati City, Davao Oriental, Go reaffirmed his commitment to the agricultural sector as he personally witnessed the handover of the 10 motorboat engines to fisherfolks Saturday, 18 November.

The turnover ceremony, which was also attended by Congressman Cheeno Almario, Governor Niño Sotero Uy, Mayor Michelle Rabat and Vice Mayor Lorenzo Rabat, among others, marked a crucial step towards both economic recovery and the revitalization of the local fishing industry, which has been significantly affected by the adverse effects of the pandemic.

In Caraga, also in Davao Oriental, Go inspected a newly constructed activity center on the same day, a project he supported as vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance.

During his visit, Go expressed the importance of such communal spaces that serve as hubs for various local activities in the rural areas.

In the Senate plenary deliberations for the 2024 proposed national budget, Go expressed strong support for the Department of National Defense, while raising concerns about the proposed mandatory pension contributions and advocating for enhanced disaster management efforts.

"I just want to express my full and strong support for the Department of National Defense headed by Secretary Gibo Teodoro and its attached agencies," said Go in his interpellation.                                         GM