Bong Go gains transport sector support, champions PUV drivers' welfare

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go secured the support of the transport sector at the National Transport Group Gathering on 3 April, held at the Corinthian Gardens Clubhouse in Quezon City.

The event, which brought together transport leaders from across the country, focused on the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP) and Go’s commitment to advancing the health and welfare of public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers.

During his speech, Go, chair of the Senate Committee on Health, emphasized the critical role PUV drivers play in the nation's economy and daily life.

“Ang mga tsuper at operator ay mga haligi ng ating lipunan. Kaya’t dapat lang na ang kanilang kapakanan ay isinusulong at pinangangalagaan,” Go stated, urging the inclusion of all Filipino drivers in the PhilHealth program to ensure they have access to essential health services.

("Drivers and operators are the pillars of our society. Therefore, their welfare must be promoted and protected.")

Go also called for the proper implementation of health benefits through PhilHealth, highlighting that transport workers, despite being vital to the country’s economy, remain among the most vulnerable sectors.

“Ang modernisasyon ay hindi dapat mangahulugan ng pagkawala ng kabuhayan, kundi ng pag-angat at pag-unlad para sa lahat. Gusto ko pong tiyakin sa inyo na sa Senado, may kaagapay kayo. Hinding-hindi ko kayo pababayaan,” he assured, stressing that the Public Transport Modernization Program should be fair and inclusive for all.

("Modernization should not mean the loss of livelihood, but rather progress and development for all. I want to assure you that in the Senate, you have a partner. I will never abandon you.")

As vice chair of the Senate Finance Committee, Go pointed to the 2025 budget, which includes P2.5 billion in fuel subsidies and P1.6 billion for the PTMP under the Department of Transportation (DOTr).

“Noong 2021, sinuportahan ko rin po ang pagbibigay ng fuel discounts at subsidy para sa mga nasa industriya ng transportasyon upang mapagaan ang epekto ng pagtaas ng presyo ng langis sa pandaigdigang merkado lalo na noong panahon ng pandemya,” he recalled, emphasizing the importance of consistent government intervention for the sector.

("In 2021, I also supported the provision of fuel discounts and subsidies for those in the transportation industry to ease the impact of rising oil prices in the global market, especially during the pandemic.")

Go also expressed support for other transport-related sectors, including delivery riders, citing Senate Bill No. 1184, which he filed to promote their welfare.

“Mahalaga ang papel nila sa ating ekonomiya lalo na sa panahon ng pandemya at sa patuloy na pag-usbong ng digital services,” he said, acknowledging their significant role in the modern economy.

("Their role is important in our economy, especially during the pandemic and with the continued growth of digital services.")

Additionally, Go extended his solidarity to the Ilocano Ako Movement, which strengthens the voice of the Ilocano community in national development.

“Kaisa ako sa kilusang nagpapalakas sa boses ng bawat Ilocano. Ramdam ko ang kanilang sipag, tibay, at malasakit sa bayan,” he shared.

("I stand with the movement that strengthens the voice of every Ilocano. I feel their hard work, resilience, and compassion for the country.")

The senator also recalled his efforts to address the concerns of the tricycle sector, including his organization of the TODA Summit in Pasay City in 2019, where he sought to address uniform regulations and other issues facing the sector.

Go’s speech received strong applause from the audience, reaffirming his position as a staunch ally for the transport sector’s rights, welfare, and future.

Earlier in the day, Go attended the 31st Season Opening of the National Capital Region Athletic Association (NCRAA) and reiterated his support for youth development through sports, an advocacy he continues to champion as Chair of the Senate Committee on Sports.