Senator Christopher “Bong” Go was honored for his support of public health initiatives as Cancer Warrior PH convened local leaders, health implementers, and advocacy groups for World Cancer Day 2026 activities last Wednesday, 4 February.
A representative delivered a message on behalf of Go, emphasizing the significance of World Cancer Day as an opportunity to reinforce shared responsibilities in cancer care and health access, especially for families facing financial and emotional strain.
"As we observe World Cancer Day, we are reminded that access to timely, affordable, and compassionate healthcare remains a shared concern for many Filipino families—especially those facing cancer. Events like this help keep the conversation going and strengthen cooperation among advocates, communities, and public servants."
The message reiterated Go’s focus on health programs designed to bring medical assistance closer to communities.
"Senator Bong Go continues to advocate for health programs and measures that aim to bring medical assistance and essential services closer to patients, particularly those with serious and long-term illnesses such as cancer. His support for health initiatives is rooted in the belief that no Filipino should feel left behind when seeking care and support during difficult times."
It emphasized inclusive, patient-centered care and recognized the role of personal stories in shaping advocacy and policy.
"To our cancer patients and survivors, please know that your stories matter. Your strength gives meaning to these efforts and serves as a constant reminder of why health advocacy must remain a priority. Many continue to draw inspiration from your courage and determination."
Go’s Cancer Warrior Award was framed as encouragement to continue collaborating with health advocates.
"Senator Bong Go also extends his sincere appreciation to Cancer Warrior PH for the recognition being given today. He accepts this honor with humility and sees it as encouragement to keep working alongside advocates and organizations that share the same goal of improving health access for our people. I am eternally grateful for this recognition, but with or without this award, I will continue to serve my fellow Filipinos, especially the cancer patients, with utmost care and respect."
The message concluded with gratitude to organizers and partners.
"Maraming salamat po, and we commend Cancer Warrior PH for its dedication to raising awareness, supporting patients, and standing with Filipino families on this continuing journey. Mabuhay kayong lahat!"
Go received the Cancer Warrior Award for supporting programs that bring health services closer to communities. He has advocated for increased funding for the Cancer Assistance Fund to ease patients’ and families’ burdens. As vice chair of the Senate Committee on Health, he has emphasized the affordability of cancer care and the need to strengthen assistance programs.
His work aligns with the National Integrated Cancer Control Act (Republic Act No. 11215), signed into law in 2019, which established the National Integrated Cancer Control Program to provide affordable cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship services. The Department of Health administers the Cancer Assistance Fund, offering financial aid to eligible patients nationwide.