Bong Go pushes accessible healthcare at Cagayan Health Awards

At the Cagayan Provincial Health Awards, Senator Christopher "Bong" Go reiterated his commitment to enhancing healthcare services in the country. The event, held at the Senala Garden Resort on Thursday, 19 December, brought together local government officials, health workers, and community leaders, including mayors, councilors, municipal health officers, barangay nutrition scholars (BNS), and members of the Municipal Nutrition Planning Committee (MNPC).

In his address, Senator Go commended health workers and local officials for their unwavering commitment to public health, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Senator Go praised the dedication and hard work of local health workers and officials, describing their efforts as remarkable and invaluable. He emphasized the importance of making a positive impact, saying, "We only pass through this world once, so whatever kindness we can do for others, let us do it now."

Themed "Pagpupugay sa mga Natatanging Kontribusyon Tungo sa Kalusugan at Kaligtasan ng Cagayan," the event recognized outstanding contributions to health and nutrition programs in the province.

Senator Go highlighted his flagship healthcare initiatives, including the Malasakit Centers, Super Health Centers, and Regional Specialty Centers, which aim to provide more accessible medical services nationwide.

Through the Malasakit Centers program, over 15 million Filipinos have benefited from the 166 centers established. The Super Health Centers, a project initiated in collaboration with the Department of Health (DOH) and local government units, deliver primary healthcare services directly to communities. Funding has been secured for more than 700 centers across the country, including 11 in Cagayan.

The Regional Specialty Centers Act, sponsored by Go and enacted as Republic Act No. 11959, aims to decentralize specialized medical services by establishing centers in regional hospitals.

Go also praised local officials, including Sta. Praxedes Mayor Esterlina Aguinaldo, Sto. Niño Mayor Vicente Pagurayan, Enrile Mayor Miguel Decena Jr., and Lal-lo Vice Mayor Olivia Pascual, for their dedication to advancing healthcare.

Enrile Mayor Decena expressed gratitude for Go's continued support. "I am grateful for all the help you have given... Senator Bong Go is well-loved in the town of Enrile," Decena said.

In addition to healthcare, Go supported infrastructure projects in Cagayan, including flood control structures, road improvements, and solar streetlight installations to enhance public safety.

On the same day, Senator Go inaugurated a Super Health Center in Peñablanca and extended assistance to underprivileged students in coordination with Tuguegarao City Mayor Maila Ting-Que.

The senator was also recognized as an adopted son of Tuguegarao City and Peñablanca, further cementing his strong ties with the local community.

"Let us continue working together for our people. I am here, your Senator Kuya Bong Go, ready to help you to the best of my ability," he concluded.