Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, reaffirmed his strong commitment to accessible and quality healthcare — especially at the grassroots level — during his visit to the newly inaugurated Super Health Center in Tabuk City, Kalinga, on Monday.
In recognition of his efforts to bring government services closer to the people, the Tabuk City government passed a resolution declaring Senator Go an adopted son of the city.
“I am deeply grateful. Please treat me as your older brother, especially now that you’ve made me an adopted son of Tabuk,” Go said in Filipino. “Wherever we meet, don’t hesitate to call me. I am always ready to help and serve in any way I can.”
He also thanked the people of Kalinga for their continued trust and support.
“I should be the one thanking you for giving me the chance to serve you again. This is the second time… you made me number one here in Tabuk, and also number one in the entire province of Kalinga,” he added.
The Super Health Center in Tabuk is one of two such facilities funded for the province. These centers are designed to bring primary and preventive care closer to underserved communities. Services include general consultations, laboratory and diagnostic testing, birthing facilities, and minor surgical procedures — helping decongest major hospitals by serving as a first line of care.
“This is one of two Super Health Centers being set up here. As chair of the Senate Committee on Health, I will support whatever facilities you need that will benefit the community,” Go assured local residents.
He emphasized the importance of expanding access to medical services in remote areas:
“Through these Super Health Centers, we bring healthcare closer to the people. You no longer have to travel far for check-ups or consultations. Reliable medical services are now right here in your community,” he said.
Go also expressed gratitude to local leaders for their commitment to improving healthcare in Kalinga. He acknowledged Governor James Adduba, Vice Governor Davao Odiem, Tabuk City Mayor Engr. Darwin Estrañero, Board Member Jay Duguiang, and Councilors Lucretina Sarol, Engr. Marc Duguiang, Atty. Ivan Bagayao, Atty. Zorayda Wacnang, and Juan Duyan for their proactive governance.
Beyond Super Health Centers, Senator Go continues to champion other key health initiatives, including the Malasakit Centers — a one-stop shop that streamlines medical and financial assistance from various government agencies.