Go joins 75th 'Araw ng Iligan', vows continued service to Mindanao

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go joined the people of Iligan City in celebrating the 75th Araw ng Iligan on Monday, 16 June, where he reaffirmed his commitment to bringing development to Mindanao and thanked Iliganons for their continued trust and support.

"Happy 75th Araw ng Iligan. I’m here to celebrate with you and also to help those affected by the recent typhoon," Go said in an interview during the event.

“I will continue to serve you to the best of my ability. Don’t thank me — I’m the one who should thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve. Thank you for your trust. I was number one here in Iligan before, and I’m number one again now,” Go added, underscoring his ongoing commitment to public service in the region.

The senator also praised the leadership of Iligan City Mayor Frederick Siao and Vice Mayor Marianito Alemania for their role in steering the city towards inclusive growth and progress.

Earlier in the day, Go led the ribbon-cutting ceremony for a newly built Super Health Center in Initao, Misamis Oriental—one of several health facilities he championed across the country to bring basic healthcare closer to communities.

During his visit to Iligan, Go also distributed aid to families affected by Typhoon Kristine, consistent with his ongoing efforts to assist disaster victims.

As Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, Go highlighted his advocacy for accessible, affordable healthcare. He vowed to continue pushing for more Malasakit Centers, Super Health Centers, and Regional Specialty Centers nationwide, especially in underserved Mindanao areas.

He reminded them that a Malasakit Center is operational at the Gregorio T. Lluch Memorial Hospital, providing poor and indigent patients access to medical assistance. Another Malasakit Center is also located at Kapatagan Provincial Hospital.

Go is the principal author and sponsor of the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019. According to the Department of Health, 167 Malasakit Centers have so far served approximately 17 million Filipinos.

He also acknowledged the city’s role in regional growth: “Iligan is important to Mindanao’s development. I thank the local leaders and citizens for their perseverance and unity.”

Go noted that a Super Health Center has also been established in Iligan, one of ten planned for Lanao del Norte, and part of over 700 funded nationwide through congressional efforts.

“On the 75th Araw ng Iligan, it is my honor to be with you in this historic celebration. I am here not just as a senator, but as your ‘Kuya’ — ready to help when you need it,” Go said.

“Public service is my passion. I believe that serving the people is serving God, serving Allah,” he added.