Go backs Batangas health boost

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go praised the provincial government of Batangas for its continued dedication to making healthcare more accessible and inclusive, during the blessing ceremony of the Outpatient Department (OPD) of the Batangas Provincial Health Integrated Management Center held Tuesday, 22 April, in Barangay Putol, Tuy.

In a video message played during the event, Senator Go commended Governor Hermilando “Dodo” Mandanas and Provincial Health Officer Dr. Rosalie Masangkay for leading the initiative. He emphasized that efforts like these are clear examples of what can be achieved through effective collaboration between local and national government.

“I know this is a special day for all of you — not just for Tuy, but for the entire province of Batangas,” Go said. “That’s why I salute this initiative of your provincial government.”

Senator Go highlighted that the development of the OPD is a flagship project of the provincial government and is in line with his advocacy to bring quality health services closer to the grassroots.

As Chair of the Senate Committee on Health, Go underscored how the new facility goes beyond healthcare — it also strengthens ties between local leaders and communities.

“The opening of the Outpatient Department of the Batangas Provincial Health Integrated Management Center is a concrete step toward more affordable healthcare for more Filipinos,” he noted. “It’s proof that when the local and national governments work together, we achieve real, tangible results that people can truly feel.”

A proud adopted son of CALABARZON, with family roots in Batangas through his Tesoro lineage, Go expressed hope that the province’s Local Health Board will continue building strong partnerships to enhance its health programs.

“Through continued cooperation, no Filipino will be left behind when it comes to healthcare,” he said.

Senator Go also reiterated his push for more Super Health Centers in communities across the country. Thanks to collaboration between his office, the Department of Health under Secretary Teodoro “Ted” Herbosa, fellow lawmakers, and local government units, over 700 Super Health Centers have been funded nationwide.

In Batangas alone, 18 Super Health Centers are already in the pipeline, providing better access to essential medical services for grassroots communities.

Go also encouraged Batangueños to make full use of the Malasakit Centers at Batangas Medical Center in Batangas City and Batangas Provincial Hospital in Lemery. These one-stop shops streamline access to government medical aid, helping indigent patients cover hospital expenses.

Senator Go, who authored and sponsored the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019 (Republic Act 11463), shared that 167 Malasakit Centers are now operating across the country, having assisted over 17 million Filipinos.

In his closing message, Go extended his gratitude to local officials and healthcare workers in attendance, reaffirming his unwavering support for health initiatives nationwide.

“Thank you very much, and long live the people of Batangas!” he said.

The event marked another important milestone in Batangas’ journey toward a more inclusive and responsive healthcare system — one that ensures every Batangueño has access to quality medical care.

“Let’s bring healthcare closer to the people, especially those who need it most,” Go emphasized. “We’ll keep serving because service is my passion — and I believe that serving the people is serving the Lord.”