Bong Go aids tricycle drivers in Abucay, Bataan

Citing how ill health can exacerbate the financial difficulties of already struggling Filipinos, Sen. Bong Go has once again underscored the importance of having greater access to quality healthcare, particularly in rural areas.

On 27 and 28 October, Go had his team provide assistance to a thousand tricycle drivers in Abucay, Bataan. In his video message, the senator also reassured that he remains steadfast in promoting a stronger healthcare system in the country.

"Napakaimportante po na ating bigyang halaga ang ating kalusugan lalo na at nasa gitna pa tayo ng pandemya. Kung magkakasakit kayo, maaaring hindi kayo makakapagtrabaho, hindi rin makakapaghanapbuhay. Delikado po ito lalo na para sa mga 'no work, no pay'," remarked Go.

"Let us continue investing in our healthcare system. An investment in the health of our people is an investment in their future. Importante po ang buhay ng bawat Pilipino. Advocacy ko ang health kaya naman, sa abot po ng aking makakaya, asahan niyo na patuloy akong gagawa at susuporta ng mga programang magpapalakas ng ating healthcare," he reassured.

As part of his commitment to bring public healthcare closer to the Filipino people, Go principally authored and sponsored Republic Act No. 11463, otherwise known as the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019. The law mandates all Department of Health-run hospitals and the Philippine General Hospital in Manila City to establish their own Malasakit Centers that will help poor and indigent patients reduce their hospital bills to the lowest amount possible.

There are currently 152 Malasakit Centers nationwide, including those at Mariveles Mental Wellness and General Hospital and Bataan General Hospital and Medical Center in Balanga City.

These centers are one-stop shops which house relevant government agencies that offer medical assistance programs, such as the DOH, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office.

Meanwhile, Go's team mounted the distribution at the vaccination site beside Abucay municipal hall where they gave away masks and snacks. They also provided bicycles, cellular phones, shoes, umbrellas, and balls for basketball and volleyball to select individuals.

Furthermore, representatives from the DSWD extended financial assistance.