Bong Go receives outstanding public servant award
SENATOR Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go has been recognized by the RP-Mission and Development Foundation Inc. ( RPMD) as one of the Outstanding Public Servant awardees for the year 2023. The recognition is a testament to Go’s significant impact and contributions to public service in the Philippines.
Known as Mr. Malasakit for his compassionate service to communities in need, Go expressed his gratitude and reaffirmed his dedication to serving the Filipino people.
“Lub os a kong nagpapasalamat sa RPMission and Development Foundation Inc. sa pagkilala sa aking mga nagawa. Ito ay nagbibigay inspirasyon at lakas sa akin upang lalo pang pagbutihin ang aking serbisyo para sa kapakanan ng bawat Pilipino,” said Go.
He added: “With or without an award or recognition, patuloy akong magseserbisyo sa abot ng aking makakaya dahil bis yoko na ang magserbisyo at naniniwala ako na ang serbisyo sa tao, ay serbisyo sa Diyos.”
Furthermore, Go highlighted the importance of collaborative effort in achieving inclusive development towards national progress. “This award is not just for me but for all of us who believe in the power of service to humanity.”
“Together, we can overcome challenges and build a stronger, more resilient Philippines. Let’s continue to work hand in hand for the welfare and progress of our beloved country,” he added.
According to Dr. Paul Martinez, executive director of the RPMD, the accolade reflects Go’s commitment to enhancing the welfare and living standards of the Filipino people throughout his career.
“Senator Go’s illustrious career in public service began as the executive assistant to the then Davao City 1st District Representative and, subsequently, President Rodrigo Duterte. It evolved into hi selection as a senator in 2019, where he achieved a commendable third-place finish, garnering approximately 21 million votes, exemplifying his deepseated dedication to the Filipino populace,” Martinez stated.
Martinez specifically lauded Go’s instrumental role in enacting the Malasakit Centers Act, which has been crucial in improving healthcare accessibility especially for poor and indigent patients nationwide. A brainchild of Go, the Malasakit Center program was first launched in 2018 and was institutionalized under Republic Act No. 11463, which the senator principally sponsored and authored. It houses relevant agencies to provide poor and indigent patients convenient access to medical assistance programs from the government. Currently, there are 159 operational Malasakit Centers that have assisted around ten million Filipinos according to DOH.
RPMD also highlighted Go’s efforts in advancing legislation that supports various sectors, including the modernization of the Bureau of Fire Protection, the enhancement of government employee wages, and the establishment of the National Academy of Sports.
“Senator Go’s advocacy efforts include the Department of Migrant Workers Act and the initiation of Super Health Centers, showcasing his holistic approach to ameliorating Filipinos’ living
urging the public to take necessary precautions to prevent fires.
To address the rising trend of fire incidents in the city, the city fire bureau has planned several activities for the month. These include continuous online
posting of fire safety tips and the hosting of symposiums and training sessions in partnership with barangays.
Additionally, a bloodletting activity is scheduled for March 3 in Barangay Granada. There will also be poster-making and drawing contests for elementary and high school students on March 5, an open house at the
Bacolod City Central fire station on March 11, a fire drill on March 13, and a kiddie fire show from March 15 to 16.
The 2nd Mayor Albee Benitez Barangay Fire Olympics will be held at the Bacolod old airport on March 18, followed by a coastal cleanup and mangrove planting activity in Barangay Punta Taytay on March 22./