Senator Christopher “Bong” Go visited Barangay Nalook in Kalibo, Aklan, on Saturday to inspect the town’s Super Health Center, a vital component of his health reform initiatives.

The visit coincided with the Ati-Atihan Festival, adding a festive backdrop to the event. The senator was accompanied by local officials, healthcare workers and community leaders, all eager to witness the facility’s potential to enhance healthcare services in the area.

During the inspection, Senator Go emphasized the importance of accessible healthcare in grassroots communities. “The primary goal of the Super Health Centers is to ensure that medical services are within reach, especially for our fellow Filipinos in remote areas,” he stated, addressing the attendees.

Super Health Centers are designed to provide primary care, early diagnosis, and consultations, forming the backbone of healthcare in grassroots communities. These facilities integrate services such as diagnostics, laboratory tests, and minor medical procedures to ease the burden on larger hospitals.

As part of his visit, Senator Go and his team distributed essential items to Barangay Health Workers (BHWs), including grocery packs, snacks, and shirts, as a token of appreciation for their dedication to community healthcare. He commended their crucial role in delivering health services, saying, “You are the first to be approached by our fellow Filipinos. Your service is a big help in the success of our health programs.”

The Super Health Center in Barangay Nalook is one of 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 have access to essential medical services without needing to travel long distances.

Senator Go also expressed his gratitude to local officials for their support in bringing the project to fruition.

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 make full use of the Malasakit Centers, including the one located at Dr. Rafael S. Tumbokon Memorial Hospital (DRSTMH) in Kalibo. These centers, established under Republic Act 11463, which was principally authored and sponsored by Senator Go, serve as one-stop shops to help indigent patients reduce their hospital expenses.

“The Malasakit Centers are here to help with your hospital expenses. Do not hesitate to visit our office or the nearest center to inquire and ask for assistance,” he advised.

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

“I will continue to support the expansion of Super Health Centers across the country to the best of my ability,” Senator Go said. He emphasized that the collective efforts of local government units and the national government are key to achieving healthcare goals.

That day, Senator Go also assisted fire victims in Manila City before traveling to Kalibo, Aklan. He also visited the Malasakit Center at DRSTMH, distributing rice porridge to patients, staff and other attendees.