Senator Bong Go, a member of the Senate Committees on Agriculture and Public Works, recently emphasized the importance of prioritizing rural development and improving the welfare of Filipino farmers, who play a vital role in securing the nation’s food supply.
Speaking via video call during a forum in Iloilo City on Thursday, he reaffirmed his commitment to better support agriculture workers, infrastructure, and healthcare for rural communities.
“I am the one who should thank you for giving me the chance to serve you,” Senator Go said, expressing his gratitude to the farmers. He also highlighted the urgent need for better rural infrastructure, especially more farm-to-market roads that can connect remote agricultural areas to markets and vital services.
“As a member of the Public Works Committee, I will continue to push for more farm-to-market roads to improve access to agriculture in the farthest areas,” he added.
Go called for more tangible support for farmers, acknowledging their daily struggles.
“Farmers work in the rain and heat, with no guarantee of a steady income. The government must help them,” he said.
Building on this, he also pointed out his efforts in advancing legislation to uplift the agriculture sector, such as co-authoring Republic Act 11901 (the Agriculture, Fisheries and Rural Development Financing Enhancement Act) and RA 11953 (the New Agrarian Emancipation Act). These laws provide financial relief and resources to farmers and agrarian reform beneficiaries.
In addition to supporting farmers, Senator Go has been an advocate for improving healthcare access in rural areas. He renewed his call for Super Health Centers that would bring essential medical services closer to communities.
“We should invest more in our healthcare system and make medical services more accessible,” he said, highlighting the importance of Malasakit Centers, Super Health Centers, and Regional Specialty Centers in reaching underserved Filipinos.