Bong Go joins turnover of Super Health Center in Malapatan, boosts grassroots healthcare access

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, attended the turnover of the Super Health Center in Barangay Lun Padidu, Malapatan, Sarangani Province, on Sunday. In his remarks, Go emphasized the importance of improving healthcare accessibility, particularly in remote communities.

He highlighted that the Super Health Centers serve as a link between rural health units and hospitals, ensuring timely medical care without the need for long-distance travel.

The Malapatan center is one of six Super Health Centers planned for Sarangani Province through a partnership involving Go, fellow lawmakers, the Department of Health (DOH), and local government units. Nationwide, over 700 such centers have been established. These facilities focus on primary care, consultations, and early disease detection, easing the burden on larger hospitals. Free consultations will be offered through local government units and the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation’s (PhilHealth) Konsulta program.

Go also acknowledged the efforts of Malapatan Mayor Salway Sumbo Jr., Vice Mayor Jean Delos Santos, and local officials in supporting the project. He reminded residents that they can also access financial aid through Malasakit Centers in SOCCSKSARGEN, which assist impoverished patients with hospital expenses.

As the principal author and sponsor of the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, Go highlighted the program's success, with 167 centers now operating nationwide, benefiting over 17 million Filipinos.

In addition to healthcare initiatives, Go has supported infrastructure projects in Malapatan, including the construction of a water system in Barangay Patag and improvements to local roads.