Prioritize poor Pinoys, public servants urged

Senator Christopher "Bong" Go never fails to enjoin public servants to champion pro-poor programs to help ensure that no Filipino is left behind on the path to recovery.

"I stand before you today not just as a senator but as a public servant committed to the welfare of our fellow Filipinos," Go declared. "Our titles may differ, but our purpose remains the same — to serve the people and work towards the betterment of our communities," Go said in the recent Philippine Councilors League's national assembly at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.

He stressed the significance of prioritizing pro-poor programs that would directly and positively impact the lives of the most vulnerable citizens.

"As leaders, we must be the bridge between our constituents and the opportunities that will lead to their empowerment. The recovery process must be inclusive, leaving no Filipino behind. We should focus on uplifting those who are struggling and ensure that they have equal access to the benefits of progress," he said.

Attended by councilors nationwide, the assembly provided a platform for leaders to come together and discuss efforts to improve their communities.

Go also thanked local government legislators for their support during the time of former president Rodrigo Duterte.

"His administration will not be successful if not because of you. Thank you for your help. I am ready to work for you as much as I can," he said.

Advocating for the marginalized sectors, Go emphasized the importance of transcending political titles and affiliations to focus on the shared goal of uplifting the lives of all Filipinos.

He highlighted the need for a collective effort to address the challenges faced by the nation, especially in the aftermath of unprecedented events such as the Covid-19 pandemic.

Voluntary wearing of masks

As chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, Go reminded fellow Filipinos, especially the elderly, to remain vigilant in the face of ongoing health threats.

He said everyone is still at risk of contracting Covid-19 and the new bacterial infection known as Mycoplasma pneumoniae, commonly called "walking pneumonia," which adds a new layer of complexity to public health.

"Although it is no longer mandatory, as the chair of the Committee on Health, I am still encouraging our countrymen to wear masks if it doesn't bother you. I am happy every time I see someone still wearing a mask, especially those with comorbidities," Go said, urging citizens to stay informed and adhere to preventive measures.

Apart from his commitment to public health, Go continues to advocate for several proposed legislative measures to strengthen the country's healthcare system.

Go has filed Senate Bill No. 195 or the creation of a Center for Disease Control. The CDC would function as the nation's central hub for disease prevention, surveillance, and control if enacted into law. The center's mandate extends to infectious and non-communicable diseases, ensuring a comprehensive approach to public health.

He also championed SBN 196, envisioning the establishment of a Virology Science and Technology Institute. The institute is designed to be a specialized center for virology, enhancing the country's capabilities in studying, detecting, and combatting emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases.