PASAY CITY -- Senator Christopher “Bong” Go continues to fulfill his commitment to safeguard the welfare of more Filipinos who are greatly affected by the ongoing pandemic as he sent assistance to a thousand vulnerable individuals from Kidapawan City, Magpet, Makilala, Arakan, Antipas, M’lang, Pigcawayan, Midsayap, Libungan, Tulunan, Matalam, Kabacan, Alamada, Banisilan, Pikit, Alamada, President Roxas in North Cotabato on Monday, December 6.

His team distributed masks and meals to the residents while they strictly enforced safety and health protocols in conducting the relief operation at the Provincial Gymnasium in Barangay Amas, Kidapawan City.

In addition, Go gave away new pairs of shoes to select beneficiaries and bicycles to others for a more convenient commute. The senator also provided some recipients with computer tablets to support their children who are studying under the blended learning set-up.

The Department of Labor and Employment distributed necessary compensation to the beneficiaries after rendering ten days of community work through its Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers program. On the other hand, the Department of Trade and Industry conducted an assessment where qualified individuals will be given livelihood support.

Lastly, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority discussed to the beneficiaries the possible opportunities to further enhance their skills through its scholarship and training programs.

As the Filipino’s health is always on top of the senator’s priorities, Go reassured the public that the government remains committed to securing sufficient vaccines. He then encouraged everyone qualified to get inoculated as this would significantly help the nation attain population protection fast and eventually lead to herd immunity.

“Tuluy-tuloy po ang ating pagbabakuna, ngunit huwag maging kumpiyansa. Bagama't bakunado po kayo importante pa rin po sumunod tayo sa mga health protocols – face mask, social distancing, at hugas ng kamay. Kung hindi naman po kailangan, huwag munang umalis ng pamamahay dahil delikado pa po,” Go reminded in his video message.

In addition, the Chair of the Senate Committee on Health offered help to the beneficiaries who may need medical attention as he informed them that there is a Malasakit Center at Cotabato Provincial Hospital in Kidapawan City where they may seek medical assistance from the government.

“Mga kababayan ko, mayroon na po tayong 149 na Malasakit Center sa buong Pilipinas na handang tumulong po sa inyo. Tutulungan ho kayo ng Malasakit Center at wala pong pinipiling pasyente ang Malasakit Center. Ang Malasakit Center ay para po sa Pilipino,” Go noted.

As part of his commitment as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, Go extended his support to the several projects in the province, including the concreting of the farm-to-market and other local roads in Alamada, Banisilan, Libungan, Midsayap, President Roxas and Kidapawan City; construction of bridges in Arakan, Kabacan, Makilala and Kidapawan City; and construction or rehabilitation of drainage canals in Kabacan and Pikit.

Other major initiatives include the construction of multipurpose buildings in Arakan, Makilala and Kidapawan City; barangay halls in Matalam and Midsayap; slaughterhouse and a public market in Arakan; improvement of a public market building in Pigcawayan; and COVID-19 response and vaccination roll-out plan in Kidapawan City.

Ending his remarks, Go thanked all the local government officials, led by Governor Nancy Catamco, for spearheading their constituents towards the road of recovery from the challenges caused by the pandemic. (OSBG)