As the holiday season draws near, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go continues his efforts to support Filipinos in need through feeding initiatives in hospitals nationwide. The program combines nourishment with healthcare assistance, aiming to address both immediate and long-term challenges faced by underprivileged communities.

From 16-18 December, lugaw (rice porridge) distribution activities took place in hospitals such as Quirino Memorial Center (QMC), National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI), and Philippine National Police (PNP) General Hospital in Quezon City; Ospital ng Muntinlupa and Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM) in Muntinlupa City; Quezon Medical Center in Lucena City; Aurora Memorial Hospital in Baler; Camarines Norte Provincial Hospital in Daet; and Bicol Medical Center in Naga City.

In Mindanao, patients from Democrito O. Plaza Memorial Hospital in Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur; Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) in Davao City; Cotabato Sanitarium and General Hospital; and Cotabato Regional and Medical Center in Cotabato City also benefited from the initiative.

Senator Go explained that the program aims to offer immediate relief to families while recognizing the additional struggles many face during the holidays.

“Hindi lang po medikal na tulong ang ating dapat tinutugunan, kundi pati na rin suporta sa pang-araw-araw na pangangailangan ng ating mga kababayan. Sa panahon ng pasko, ang simpleng lugaw ay simbolo ng malasakit at pagkakaisa,” he said, emphasizing the importance of addressing hunger alongside healthcare needs.

(We shouldn't just be focusing on medical assistance, but supporting our countrymen's daily needs as well. This Christmas season, simple lugaw can be a symbol for compassion and unity.)

The senator highlighted the Malasakit Centers as a vital resource for Filipinos needing medical assistance. Established under Republic Act No. 11463, which Go sponsored, the centers provide a streamlined approach to accessing help from various government agencies. Since their launch in 2018, over 15 million Filipinos have been served through 166 centers nationwide.

The feeding initiative aligns with efforts to ensure that healthcare access is coupled with practical assistance to address basic needs. Go hopes programs like these foster recovery and stability for struggling families.

“Ngayong Kapaskuhan, hangad kong maipadama sa bawat Pilipino na hindi sila nag-iisa sa laban ng buhay,” he said.

(During the holidays, I want every to Filipino to believe that they are not alone in their lives.)

While Senator Go acknowledged the importance of offering direct support, he also stressed the need for systemic solutions to uplift communities.