Go aches to visit Digong but…

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has expressed deep concern over the condition of detained former President Rodrigo Duterte, reiterating his desire to visit him at The Hague, Netherlands where he is facing charges before the International Criminal Court.

“I wish I could visit Tatay Digong now. I really want to see him and talk to him. But you know, even Tatay Digong himself advised me, ‘Do not neglect your work. Prioritize serving the nation,’” Go told hundreds of barangay officials at the Liga ng mga Barangay-Pampanga Chapter Provincial Congress recently.

Go underscored to the village officials the former president’s advice to always prioritize duty, stay focused on their responsibilities, set aside political distractions, and pray for Duterte’s health and safety.

“I have a request of all of you. Let us pray for Tatay Digong — his health, his safety, and his strength,” he said.

During the event, Go reaffirmed his support for barangay officials, pledging to push legislative measures that would strengthen local governance.

He highlighted Senate Bill 2802, which seeks to extend the term of barangay and SK officials to four years, and Senate Bill 197, or the Magna Carta for Barangays, which aims to grant barangay officials benefits similar to regular government employees.

He also emphasized his advocacy for barangay health workers, particularly Senate Bill 2838, which institutionalizes their compensation and benefits.

Additionally, he cited ongoing healthcare initiatives such as the establishment of over 700 Super Health Centers nationwide, including 15 in Pampanga.

In conclusion, Go reiterated Duterte’s advice: “Do what is right. Put Filipinos first. Prioritize the nation’s interests, and you will not go wrong.”

He urged Filipinos to be united, warning against political discord that could harm vulnerable sectors of society.

“I am calling for peace and unity. Let us stand together because if there is disorder, it is the poor who will suffer the most,” he said.