Bong Go visits Iloilo, gives aid to displaced workers

SEN. Christopher “Bong” Go has raised the need to enhance government support for the poor as he provided aid to about 500 displaced workers in Lambunao town in Iloilo.

The senator proceeded to Lambunao, Iloilo, on Friday, March 22, to provide support to the needy and attended the groundbreaking of the town’s Super Health Center (SHC).

On the same day, Go brought additional aid to fire victims. He also attended the Lady Local Legislators League of the Philippines National Summit in Iloilo City.

In his speech, he stressed the significance of providing livelihood assistance to “individuals facing hardships.”

He emphasized the critical role of the government in mitigating the economic fallout caused by the Covid-19 pandemic on the most vulnerable sectors.

“We must continue helping one another. We, in government, will continue to find ways to revive the economy,” the senator said in Filipino.

Go distributed grocery packs, snacks, vitamins, masks, and shirts to the displaced workers. There were also select recipients of a bicycle, shoes, mobile phones, watches, and balls for basketball and volleyball.

Go said he filed Senate Bill 420 to foster employment opportunities for low-income rural households.

It aims to institutionalize the Rural Employment Assistance Program (REAP) that seeks to provide temporary employment opportunities for displaced workers in rural areas.

Go said REAP is envisioned to serve as a vital lifeline for eligible members of rural communities by offering them support toward economic stability.

Representatives from the Department of Labor and Employment also conducted an orientation session for the qualified beneficiaries of the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (Tupad) program.

Go said Tupad “is part of a broader effort to provide support to displaced workers, ensuring they receive the necessary guidance and assistance to navigate their way to employment.”

He lauded Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr., Vice Gov. Christine Garin, 3rd District Rep. Lorenz Defensor, Mayor Reynor Gonzales and Vice Mayor Arvin Losaria in assisting their constituents.

Go, chairman of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, offered additional help to Ilonggos in need of medical assistance through the Malasakit centers in the province.

He supports the establishment of SHCs nationwide which should improve the health care system and bring primary care, consultations, and early disease detection closer to communities.