As Typhoon Tino left widespread destruction across Central Visayas, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go urged the Department of Health (DOH) and local government units (LGUs) to prioritize the health and safety of affected communities.

Go, vice chair of the Senate Committee on Health and principal author and co-sponsor of Republic Act 12076 or the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act, stressed the importance of preparedness and swift response.

“In times of calamity, no one should be complacent. All of us, from national to local, must be alert and prepared. The safety of every Filipino must always be our priority,” Go said.

Go highlighted the implementation of the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act, which mandates the construction of permanent, well-equipped, and disaster-resistant evacuation centers nationwide. He said LGUs must activate evacuation centers with emergency response and medical teams and mobilize their disaster risk reduction and management councils immediately.

He also called on the public to cooperate, saying, “Let's work together. Listen to the notices of your LGU and government agencies.”

Go likewise urged the DOH to ensure that public hospitals and rural health units are adequately equipped to handle crises and prevent outbreaks associated with flooding and calamities.

He also reminded Filipinos that they may seek free medical consultations and services at Malasakit Centers and Super Health Centers. Go is the principal author and sponsor of Republic Act 11463, or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which brings together the DOH, DSWD, PhilHealth, and PCSO to streamline assistance for poor and indigent patients.