‘Build new cities to decongest metro’

Secretary Panelo can accept all the critics’ challenge but traffic still won’t be solved.

Never letting go Like a doting father, Sen. Bong Go has a hands-on approach to everyday problems that endears him to the public.

With the worsening traffic, Sen. Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go yesterday proposed building new cities outside Metro Manila that can be at par with its economic and social progress.

“You know, traffic in the Metro has been there long before. Secretary Panelo can accept all the critics’ challenge but traffic still won’t be solved,” he said, referring to Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo who just recently took the commute challenge.

Go was answering questions from media following his visits to fire victims in Sta. Ana, Manila and Barangay CAA of Las Piñas City where he once again provided assistance.

“It’s hard to solve the traffic problem in our midst. That is why we have to go out of Metro Manila and establish new urban centers,” he explained, citing the New Clark City, Batangas and Davao where industries can invest, Filipinos can thrive and more importantly, where space for expansions are still available.

The Senator clarified, however, that the government does not rest on these options. Go emphasized that the government continues to realize the plans for Metro Manila, such as those indicated in the “Build, Build, Build” program.

He also cited the airport being built in Bulacan that he believes will decongest Metro Manila.

Go brought with him grocery packs, food and cash assistance that were distributed to the residents of Maunlad St. Phase 4 and Mabuhay St. Phase 3 who were affected by the fire incident that razed their houses last 10 October.

The Senator also told the students who were affected by the incident that he will provide uniforms and school supplies so they could go to back to school immediately.

Go encouraged those who came from the provinces to go back home and that he is willing to pay for their one-way fare. He pointed out that the population in Manila is already getting out of proportion and that life in the province is more sustainable for living.