Sen. Bong Go Visits Cebu to Aid Earthquake Victims
Sen. Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go recently extended aid to residents in Cebu province who were affected by the powerful 6.9 magnitude earthquake that struck on September 30. The visit to San Remigio highlighted the urgent medical and humanitarian needs of communities reeling from the disaster.
The senator emphasized that relief must go beyond immediate shelter and food, stressing that access to healthcare is critical for quake-hit families. He urged government agencies to work in tandem to ensure that injuries and health concerns are promptly addressed as Cebu works toward recovery.
Call for Accelerated Health Support from DOH and PhilHealth
Go specifically called on the Department of Health (DOH) and the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) to deploy frontline medical teams and streamline benefits for affected residents. With Cebu declared under a state of calamity, the health system is under pressure to deliver essential services to those in need.
“I appeal to the Department of Health (DOH) to immediately deploy front liners. Let us help those who got hurt,” Go said, speaking in Filipino. He added that the government must ensure continuity of care for patients with ongoing health concerns and those who may require treatment after the tremors.
Data Reflecting the Human Impact
Officials from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council reported rising injuries and widespread displacement. As of the latest figures, injuries reached 559 people, while more than 366,300 individuals, representing about 80,595 families, were affected by the disaster. These numbers underscore the need for sustained medical assistance and durable health coverage for quake-affected communities.
Go reiterated his appeal for a coordinated response where health services, shelter, and social support converge to help residents regain normalcy. He noted that the tragedy places a particular burden on frontline healthcare workers, who must be supported as they treat injuries and monitor longer-term health risks that may emerge after a major earthquake.
PhilHealth and DOH: Responsibility to the Affected
The senator stressed that PhilHealth should ensure that every member receives whatever health programs they are entitled to, especially those hit by the quake. Ensuring coverage and access to necessary medical services can prevent medical costs from becoming a barrier to recovery for vulnerable families.
In response to the disaster, Go urged continued collaboration among agencies, local governments, and non-government organizations. The overarching goal is to restore normalcy more quickly by addressing both immediate and ongoing health needs, while also supporting the rehabilitation of affected health facilities and clinics in the province.
Looking Ahead
As Cebu navigates the aftermath of the earthquake, lawmakers and relief agencies are likely to intensify health-focused relief measures. The interplay of rapid medical deployment, insurance coverage, and community-based support will be crucial to stabilizing affected areas and accelerating recovery for residents in San Remigio and beyond.
