Go leads Baganga Health Center turnover

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health, led the blessing and turnover of a new Super Health Center in Barangay Dapnan on Saturday as part of efforts to expand primary medical services in rural communities.

The facility in Baganga is among 16 Super Health Centers funded in Davao Oriental through legislative support championed by Go to address healthcare access in remote municipalities, where residents often face geographical and financial barriers when seeking basic medical care.

“It is better to catch illnesses early,” Go said during the ceremony. “It is better if our countrymen can immediately get a medical checkup, laboratory tests, medicines, and see a doctor before their condition worsens.”

The turnover event was attended by local officials, including Baganga Mayor Laureano Taya, Vice Mayor Menakhim Mikhael Karl Macayra, and barangay captain Ferdinand Apostol Jr. A day prior to the Baganga turnover, Go inspected another Super Health Center in San Isidro, Davao Oriental.

During the visit, Go distributed grocery packs, sports equipment, and promotional items to 150 local barangay health workers.

Go highlighted his pending legislative proposals, including Senate Bill No. 412, or the proposed Magna Carta of Barangay Health Workers, which seeks to guarantee a monthly honorarium of at least P3,000 for local health volunteers, alongside existing benefits under Republic Act 11712 for health emergency allowances.

Following the health center turnover, Go led a relief operation providing financial assistance, food packs, and basic necessities to 500 indigent residents in Baganga.

Select beneficiaries received additional support, including footwear, watches, mobile phones and bicycles.

Addressing the recipients, Go urged residents to prioritize basic needs, particularly food for their families, while reiterating his commitment to social welfare initiatives.

“We only pass through this world once,” Go said. “Whatever good or help we can give to our fellowmen, let us do it now because we will not pass this way again.”