Bong Go brings healthcare closer to Kalibo community

Senator Christopher "Bong" Go visited Barangay Nalook in Kalibo, Aklan, on Saturday to inspect the town’s newly established Super Health Center, a key component of his ongoing health reform initiatives.

The visit coincided with the vibrant Ati-Atihan Festival, providing a festive backdrop to the event. The senator was joined by local officials, healthcare workers, and community leaders eager to explore the potential of the facility to improve healthcare services in the area.

During the inspection, Senator Go highlighted the importance of making healthcare accessible to grassroots communities. “Ang pangunahing layunin ng Super Health Centers ay matiyak na ang serbisyong medikal ay abot-kamay, lalo na para sa mga kababayan nating nasa malalayong lugar,” he said, addressing the attendees.

Super Health Centers are designed to provide primary care, early diagnosis, and consultations, becoming a cornerstone of healthcare in rural areas. These centers integrate essential services, including diagnostics, laboratory tests, and minor medical procedures, to ease the burden on larger hospitals.

As part of his visit, Senator Go distributed essential items to Barangay Health Workers (BHWs), including grocery packs, snacks, and shirts, as a token of gratitude for their dedication to community healthcare. He praised their crucial role in delivering health services, stating, “Kayo po ang unang nilalapitan ng ating mga kababayan. Malaking tulong ang inyong serbisyo sa tagumpay ng ating mga programang pangkalusugan.”

The Super Health Center in Barangay Nalook is one of several such facilities in Aklan, funded through the collaborative efforts of Senator Go, fellow lawmakers, and the Department of Health (DOH), under Secretary Teodoro "Ted" Herbosa. This initiative aims to ensure that residents can access essential medical services without the need to travel long distances.

Senator Go also took the opportunity to express his appreciation to local officials for their support in making the project a reality. Among those acknowledged were Governor Joen Miraflores; Kalibo Mayor Juris Sucro; Cuartero, Capiz Mayor Tito Mayo; and barangay officials.

Additionally, Senator Go encouraged residents to take full advantage of the services provided by Malasakit Centers, including the one at Dr. Rafael S. Tumbokon Memorial Hospital (DRSTMH) in Kalibo. These centers, established under Republic Act No. 11463, which was principally authored and sponsored by Senator Go, serve as one-stop shops to assist impoverished patients in reducing hospital expenses.

To date, 166 Malasakit Centers have been established nationwide, benefiting over 15 million Filipinos. These centers are designed to ensure that no Filipino is denied access to healthcare due to financial constraints.

“Patuloy po akong tutulong sa pagpaparami ng Super Health Centers sa bansa sa abot po ng aking makakaya," Senator Go said, emphasizing that the collective efforts of local government units and the national government are essential to achieving the country’s healthcare goals.

Earlier that day, Senator Go also assisted fire victims in Manila before heading to Kalibo for the festival celebrations. He visited the Malasakit Center at DRSTMH, where he distributed rice porridge to patients, staff, and attendees.