Senator Christopher "Bong" Go, Chairperson of the Senate Health Committee, has called on Filipinos to remain calm and vigilant in response to unverified social media reports regarding an alleged international health threat. Reports claiming overwhelmed hospitals and crematories in China due to respiratory illnesses were dismissed by both the Department of Health (DOH) and the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines.

"Mga kababayan, siguraduhin nating mula sa maaasahang sources ang mga impormasyon natin, tulad ng DOH at WHO (Countrymen, let's make sure our information comes from verified sources like DOH and WHO)," Senator Go reminded. He emphasized the importance of accurate information to avoid panic and ensure appropriate precautions.

The DOH reassured the public that no credible confirmation has been issued by the World Health Organization (WHO) and that the Philippines' disease surveillance systems are active and operational.

To further address public health, Go reiterated his advocacy for improved healthcare accessibility through programs like Malasakit Centers, Super Health Centers, and Regional Specialty Centers. Malasakit Centers have already provided aid to more than 15 million Filipinos, while over 700 Super Health Centers have been funded to strengthen primary care services.

Addressing the tragic death in Cavite

Reacting to the recent death of a man in Rosario, Cavite, Senator Go expressed deep concern and highlighted the urgent need for healthcare reform. The victim, who reportedly left a clinic without being examined due to distress, was later found lifeless by the roadside.

“Quality healthcare is not a privilege for only a few — it is a basic right that must be available to all,” Go said.

Initial investigations on Thursday, 2 January revealed that the victim had boarded a mini-bus from Cavite City heading toward Rosario. The bus driver, noticing the man in distress, dropped him off near the municipal hall so he could seek medical attention at a nearby clinic. However, the man quickly left without consulting a doctor and was later discovered lifeless by the roadside.

The incident reignited criticism of the country's healthcare system, with many Filipinos hesitant to seek hospital care due to the fear of high medical costs. Go called for immediate improvements in PhilHealth’s benefit packages and the proper utilization of its reported reserve funds of over P500 billion.

“Sa halip na bawasan ang pondo, dapat ayusin natin ang sistema. Ang pangangalaga sa kalusugan ay hindi dapat maging pabigat, lalo na sa mahihirap (Rather than reduce the budget, the system should be fixed. Taking care of one's health should not be a burden, especially for the poor),” he emphasized.

Commitment to healthcare reform

As part of his health advocacy, Senator Go underscored his commitment to pushing legislative measures to strengthen the healthcare system. These include the expansion of benefit packages under PhilHealth, increased funding for medical facilities, and the construction of Super Health Centers and Regional Specialty Centers.

Through the Malasakit Centers program, Senator Go aims to ensure that no Filipino is left behind in accessing affordable and quality medical services.

Go also called for a collective effort among healthcare providers and government agencies to address barriers to medical access.

“We need a healthcare system that is compassionate, responsive, and accessible. No one should feel afraid or hesitant to seek medical attention,” he stressed.

With 166 Malasakit Centers operational nationwide and his continued push for healthcare infrastructure improvements, Go reaffirmed his dedication to providing equitable healthcare services. He emphasized that efforts like these are critical to ensuring every Filipino’s right to quality medical care.