Senator Christopher “Bong” Go is urging Filipinos to take control of their health as the country faces a rising number of deaths caused by non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and stroke.

NCDs account for around 70 percent of annual deaths in the Philippines — over 600,000 lives lost each year.

“If we want to avoid serious illnesses, we need to start with simple steps — eat properly, avoid vices, stay physically active and get regular check-ups,” Go said.

In the first half of 2024 alone, data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showed ischemic heart disease as the top killer, followed by cancer, stroke and diabetes. A recent World Health Organization report also flagged the Philippines as one of the few countries in the Western Pacific where NCD-related deaths continue to rise.

Public health group HPA is calling on Filipinos, especially the youth, to reduce consumption of ultra-processed food, avoid smoking and vaping, and monitor key health indicators like blood sugar and blood pressure.

Go emphasized that prevention should be a national priority. “It’s alarming how many Filipinos die from preventable diseases. Prevention is better than cure — our health is our life,” he said.

As part of his health advocacy, Go highlighted government reforms to make healthcare more accessible. He authored the Malasakit Centers Act, which created one-stop shops in hospitals to assist poor patients. There are now 167 Malasakit Centers nationwide, helping over 17 million Filipinos.

He also supported the creation of Super Health Centers to bring primary care and free consultations closer to communities, in partnership with the Department of Health and local governments.

Recent reforms in PhilHealth — pushed by Go — include the removal of outdated policies such as the Single Period of Confinement and 24-hour confinement rules, which limited coverage. PhilHealth also lifted the 45-day annual hospitalization cap and is expanding benefits to include services like dental and vision care.

“Health shouldn’t be limited by technicalities. The system must work for the people,” Go stressed.

As Senate Committee on Sports chair, he also encourages youth to stay active and avoid illegal drugs. “Sports are linked to health. That’s why I always tell young people: get into sports to stay strong and healthy,” he added.