Sen. Go presses for relief-focused governance
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has urged the national government to channel funds and attention toward victims of recent natural disasters, rather than continuing to fund what he described as ghost projects and questionable flood-control programs. Speaking publicly on Sunday, October 12, Go framed the issue as a moral and practical obligation to prioritize frontline relief and long-term recovery for affected communities.
Personal experience anchors the call
Go recounted his own experience during a trip to Davao Oriental, where he was attending the inauguration of a Super Health Center in Don Marcelino, Davao Occidental, when a strong earthquake struck the region on October 10. He said the tremor shook the venue, yet his team pressed on with their duties to assist residents in need. “While we were serving our fellow Filipinos in Davao Occidental, the ground suddenly shook. But despite the fear, our hearts remain ready to help all those affected,” Go stated.
The senator emphasized that, in the wake of the quake, he personally moved among affected communities in the area, inspecting damage, briefing residents, and distributing relief goods. He noted that relief operations continued across other disaster zones as well, including Cebu after the earthquake and areas hit by Typhoons “Nando” and “Opong” in Masbate and parts of Luzon.
Systemic reform over sporadic aid
Go argued that public funds should be redirected toward infrastructure and livelihood projects that deliver tangible benefits to disaster-stricken communities, rather than being siphoned into questionable projects that do not reach those in need. He called on authorities to increase transparency and accountability in the use of public resources, stressing that compassion must translate into sustainable support for those rebuilding their lives after disasters.
“Public funds should go to those who truly need them — the victims of earthquakes, typhoons, and other calamities — not into the pockets of the greedy,” Go asserted. He urged the government to maintain continuous support for victims of past disasters who are still on the road to recovery, arguing that relief must evolve into lasting development to prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.
What the Malasakit centers and Super Health Centers mean for disaster zones
As a proponent of expanding the Malasakit Centers and Super Health Centers nationwide, Go highlighted the role of accessible healthcare in disaster-prone and underserved areas. He said these facilities are essential for delivering timely medical care, mental health support, and rehabilitation services to communities impacted by natural hazards. By strengthening local health systems, the government can reduce long-term hardship and improve resilience against future calamities.
Go also underscored the importance of ongoing, well-coordinated relief efforts. He noted that his Malasakit team has been actively conducting relief missions in Cebu and other affected areas, ensuring that food, water, shelter, and essential supplies reach families most in need. The senator’s message is clear: relief cannot be episodic; it must be part of a sustained commitment to recovery and growth.
Call to action for policymakers and citizens
In closing, Go urged policymakers to scrutinize budget allocations and prioritize programs that directly benefit disaster victims, farmers, workers, and small businesses striving to recover. He encouraged citizens to demand greater accountability and to support initiatives that strengthen infrastructure, livelihood opportunities, and health services in disaster-prone regions. The overarching message is one of practical compassion and proactive governance that protects vulnerable communities today and tomorrow.
