Bong Go seeks institutionalization of ‘Malasakit Center’

Special Assistant to the President (SAP) Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go was one of them, getting appreciation for his big contribution in the establishment of “Malasakit Centers” in Visayas. ALFRED FRIAS/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

MANILA — Former Special Assistant to the President Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go on Saturday said he will push for the enactment of a law institutionalizing the Malasakit Center if given a Senate seat.

Go said he will push for the institutionalization of the health facility so that they will continue to be operational even after President Rodrigo Duterte’s term ends in 2022.

“Sa kanya ko talaga natutunan ang pagserbisyo na may malasakit sa sambayanan. Marami akong natutunan sa kanya kaya nakarating ako dito. Dahil na rin sa kanya, after 20 taon, nagpapasalamat ako na marami akong natulungan dahil sa kanya. Akin na itong naumpisahan at ipagpapatuloy ko kapag nasa senado na ako (I learned doing public service from him [Duterte]. I learned so much from him that’s why I’m here.

After 20 years, I’m really grateful that I helped a lot of people because of him. I have already started this and I will continue this in the Senate),” he said.

The former presidential top aide was able to put up 15 Malasakit Centers all over the Philippines.

These serve as one-stop shops that hasten the delivery of medical services to indigent patients and provide access to free medicines.

A fast lane prioritizing senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs) is also available in every center.

Duterte’s closest aide for two decades also reiterated that he is just an ordinary citizen who wants nothing more than to continue serving the public by passing laws that will uplift their lives.

Once elected, Go said he will support the legislative agenda of Duterte as well as push for his advocacy of improving the country’s medical services, especially those that address the needs of the poor.

Go said he credits Duterte for imparting a lot of lessons during their more than two decades together, especially on being loyal to the nation and to the Filipinos.