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CHIZ: CHANGE IN DOH LEADERSHIP TO BRING STABILITY TO UHC ROLLOUTSen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero on Monday welcomed Malacaña...
10/08/2026

CHIZ: CHANGE IN DOH LEADERSHIP TO BRING STABILITY TO UHC ROLLOUT

Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero on Monday welcomed Malacañang’s appointment of a new Health Secretary, saying the Palace’s action helps resolve the leadership issues that have recently hounded the Department of Health (DOH) and threatened to disrupt the implementation of Universal Health Care (UHC).

Escudero said the decision provides “much‑needed clarity and stability” for the agency, which he earlier urged Malacañang to intervene in to ensure the continuity and ex*****on of the UHC program.

“We welcome the new appointment and we wish the newly appointed Health Secretary, Dr. Edwin Mercado, all the best as he takes on his new role as the administration’s chief implementer of its health programs,” he said.

Escudero also welcomed the designation of Dr. Beverly Lorraine C. Ho as the new President and CEO of PhilHealth, saying her appointment complements the leadership transition at the DOH. Ho, the current chief health officer of Ayala Healthcare Holdings Inc., previously served at the DOH as undersecretary and was health department’s deputy spokesperson during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Ang pagtalaga kay Dr. Ho sa PhilHealth ay nagbibigay ng karagdagang lakas sa ating UHC reforms. May sapat siyang karanasan sa public health at pamamahala upang maipagpatuloy ang mga repormang kailangan ng sistema,” Escudero pointed out.

In his podcast Chiz Wiz! Usapang May Laman over the weekend, the veteran legislator appealed to the Palace to address the DOH’s leadership concerns involving Mercado’s immediate predecessor, Jose Pujalte Jr., warning that unresolved issues could hinder the rollout of UHC and weaken preventive healthcare programs nationwide.

With a new secretary now in place, Escudero said the DOH can refocus on strengthening UHC implementation, particularly in widening PhilHealth coverage and improving access for both public and private health facilities.

He noted that incoming Secretary Mercado, who is a US‑trained orthopedic surgeon with 35 years of experience in hospital management and has served as PhilHealth president and CEO since February last year, brings institutional familiarity that can help stabilize ongoing reforms.

"Ang pagtalaga kay Dr. Ho sa PhilHealth ay nagbibigay ng karagdagang lakas sa ating UHC reforms. May sapat siyang karanasan sa public health at pamamahala upang maipagpatuloy ang mga repormang kailangan ng sistema,” Escudero pointed out.

PhilHealth currently covers nearly 70 million registered members and more than 38 million dependents, or over 108 million Filipinos. During the weekend podcast, the veteran legislator emphasized that this wide membership base requires a stable DOH leadership to address gaps in preventive care, emergency response in remote areas, and uneven implementation at the local government level.

According to the Bicolano senator, PhilHealth’s financial position remains stable, saying the agency has sufficient funds to support wider benefit coverage. “Hindi kulang ang pondo ng PhilHealth. May sapat na pondo … Sistema lang talaga dapat ang ayusin para mas mapalawak ang coverage.”

Escudero told his podcast listeners that discussions on UHC and PhilHealth benefits remain extensive, including the need to improve support for barangay health workers and address long‑standing gaps in service delivery.

“Pipilitin po nating matugunan iyan. Mahaba pa po ang usapin kaugnay sa universal health care … gayun din ‘yung dapat nating tahaking landas tungo sa mithiin nating lahat na totoo, makatarungan at pangkalahatang pagpapatupad ng UHC para sa kapakanan ng ating mga kababayan,” he said.

Lubog pa rin sa baha ang ilang kalsada sa Manila.Sa post ni Mayor Isko Moreno, Ngayong umaga Agosto 10, baha sa halos bu...
10/08/2026

Lubog pa rin sa baha ang ilang kalsada sa Manila.

Sa post ni Mayor Isko Moreno, Ngayong umaga Agosto 10, baha sa halos buong kahabaan ng Taft Avenue

02/08/2026
CHIZ SEEKS TO INSTITUTIONALIZE BAN ON GAMBLING ADS, SPONSORSHIPS TO CURB ADDICTIONSenator Francis “Chiz” Escudero has pr...
02/08/2026

CHIZ SEEKS TO INSTITUTIONALIZE BAN ON GAMBLING ADS, SPONSORSHIPS TO CURB ADDICTION

Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero has proposed a nationwide ban on gambling-related advertisements and sponsorships to curb excessive and irresponsible gambling behavior while protecting minors and other vulnerable groups.

Escudero said the measure mirrors the country’s earlier approach to the to***co industry under Republic Act 9211, or the To***co Regulation Act of 2003, which imposed sweeping restrictions on advertising to safeguard public health.

“It’s about time that we regulate the gambling industry the same way we regulated to***co two decades ago,” he said upon filing of Senate Bill No. 2347, noting that both sectors pose significant risks when promotions become pervasive and youth targeted.

RA 9211, which Escudero supported during his tenure in the House of Representatives, prohibited to***co advertising across print, broadcast, electronic, and outdoor media and barred the use of celebrity endorsements and branded placements in entertainment content, which proved to be effective in reducing undue exposure among minors and non-adult smokers.

Escudero’s SB 2347 seeks to apply a similar standard to gambling promotions by banning advertisements on television, radio, print, online, and social media platforms, including celebrity endorsements and influencer campaigns. The bill also calls for responsible gambling advisories in authorized consumer communications to remind the public of the risks of compulsive gaming.

The senator also cited the recent initiative of the Ad Standards Council (ASC), which voluntarily issued a self-regulation circular requiring its members to ban gambling imagery and paraphernalia across all media platforms.

“My bill shall institutionalize this effort by placing the restrictions under a national legal framework, ensuring uniform enforcement and preventing gaps in regulation,” he stressed.

While the gambling industry contributes significantly to government revenues, employment, and tourism, “it has likewise fueled advertisements, promotions, sponsorships, marketing, and other analogous consumer communications that are becoming increasingly pervasive, sophisticated, and targeted,” Escudero said.

The veteran legislator warned that the growing visibility of gambling‑related services “presents significant public mental and physical well‑being and socioeconomic concerns, particularly with respect to undue exposure, excessive, compulsive, and irresponsible gambling behavior.”

In the bill’s explanatory note, the senator cited the rapid expansion of online and digital gaming platforms, with the Philippine gambling industry recording some P396.13 billion in gross gaming revenues for Fiscal Year 2025, as evidence of its record‑breaking growth.

He said the measure aims to balance economic gains with social responsibility, while holding gambling operators and advertisers to higher ethical standards.

To ensure orderly implementation, SB 2347 provides a one-year transition period upon the law’s passage for gambling operators and advertisers to phase out existing materials and align their operations with forthcoming regulations, an approach will allow agencies and stakeholders to adjust compliance mechanisms before full enforcement takes effect, minimizing disruption while strengthening oversight, Escudero said.

Violations of the advertising ban will carry escalating penalties: a fine of up to P200,000 or imprisonment of up to one year for the first offense; P300,000 or up to two years for the second; and P500,000 or up to three years for the third, along with revocation of business permits or licenses.

Meanwhile, corporate officers and foreign nationals found liable will face corresponding sanctions, including deportation.

The Bicolano senator said the imposition of penalties is “only to ensure its effective implementation,” underscoring that deterrence is essential to protect public welfare and uphold the integrity of the law.

The bill also mandates an education and awareness campaign to promote responsible gambling and inform the public about available mental‑health support and consumer protection programs. Government agencies will be tasked to develop sustained information drives that highlight the risks of compulsive gaming and encourage informed decision‑making among players.

Escudero said the measure ultimately seeks to “foster a more responsible gaming environment, protect minors and vulnerable persons, promote informed consumer choice, and advance public interest.”


Senator B**g Go extends aid to half a thousand TODA members in San Isidro amid rising fuel costsRecognizing the challeng...
26/06/2026

Senator B**g Go extends aid to half a thousand TODA members in San Isidro amid rising fuel costs

Recognizing the challenges brought about by high fuel prices and expenses, Senator Christopher “B**g” Go extended assistance to members of Tricycle Operators and Drivers Associations (TODA) in San Isidro, Davao Oriental, on Wednesday, June 24.

The assistance distribution was part of Go’s continuing efforts to support transport workers, whom he described as among the unsung heroes who keep communities moving despite economic hardships.

“Kayo po ang ating mga modern-day heroes na hindi napapagod sa pagsiguro na makarating ang bawat isa sa kanilang mga destinasyon, mula eskwelahan, trabaho, o anumang mahalagang gawain. Hindi matatawaran ang inyong sakripisyo, lalo na sa mga oras na kinakailangan ng mabilis at maaasahang transportasyon ng ating mga kababayan,” Go said.

A native of Davao Oriental, Go acknowledged the difficulties faced by tricycle drivers and operators, particularly the impact of fuel price hikes on their daily income.

“Alam ko po ang mga hamon na inyong hinaharap, tulad ng pagtaas ng presyo ng gasolina at mga gastusin sa inyong mga tricycle. Kaya naman, patuloy nating hahanapan ng paraan kung paano kayo matutulungan at masusuportahan,” he added.

To help ease their burden, Go provided assistance to 500 TODA Members.

Joining the senator during the activity were Board Members Don Montojo and Rotchie Ravelo, San Isidro Mayor Maria Angelica Go-Dayanghirang, Vice Mayor Sherlyn Marcojos-Casama, Lupon Vice Mayor Atty. Christian Lawrence "Chrence" Go, and members of the municipal council. Go expressed his gratitude for their continued support and partnership in serving the transport sector and the broader community.

Prior to the distribution, the senator visited local vendors and purchased kakanins as part of his continuing effort to encourage support for small entrepreneurs and local businesses. He also met a beneficiary who is a person with disability and personally provided him with a new walking cane.

As the activity concluded, Go reiterated his commitment to working closely with TODA members and local government officials to ensure that the transport sector remains resilient, productive, and adequately supported.

“Kasama ninyo ako sa pagsusulong ng mas maayos, mas ligtas, at mas maunlad na komunidad, dahil kasama 'yan sa aking bisyo, ang magserbisyo. Magkaisa po tayo para sa mas maliwanag na kinabukasan hindi lamang para sa inyong hanapbuhay kundi para na rin sa inyong mga pamilya at mga mahal sa buhay,” Go said.

On the same day, Go also provided assistance to barangay functionaries in Banaybanay and assisted vendors in Lupon. Go also attended the inauguration of Maco, Davao de Oro Super Health Center.


Senator B**g Go extends aid to half a thousand TODA members in San Isidro amid rising fuel costs

Recognizing the challenges brought about by high fuel prices and expenses, Senator Christopher “B**g” Go extended assistance to members of Tricycle Operators and Drivers Associations (TODA) in San Isidro, Davao Oriental, on Wednesday, June 24.

The assistance distribution was part of Go’s continuing efforts to support transport workers, whom he described as among the unsung heroes who keep communities moving despite economic hardships.

“Kayo po ang ating mga modern-day heroes na hindi napapagod sa pagsiguro na makarating ang bawat isa sa kanilang mga destinasyon, mula eskwelahan, trabaho, o anumang mahalagang gawain. Hindi matatawaran ang inyong sakripisyo, lalo na sa mga oras na kinakailangan ng mabilis at maaasahang transportasyon ng ating mga kababayan,” Go said.

A native of Davao Oriental, Go acknowledged the difficulties faced by tricycle drivers and operators, particularly the impact of fuel price hikes on their daily income.

“Alam ko po ang mga hamon na inyong hinaharap, tulad ng pagtaas ng presyo ng gasolina at mga gastusin sa inyong mga tricycle. Kaya naman, patuloy nating hahanapan ng paraan kung paano kayo matutulungan at masusuportahan,” he added.

To help ease their burden, Go provided assistance to 500 TODA Members.

Joining the senator during the activity were Board Members Don Montojo and Rotchie Ravelo, San Isidro Mayor Maria Angelica Go-Dayanghirang, Vice Mayor Sherlyn Marcojos-Casama, Lupon Vice Mayor Atty. Christian Lawrence "Chrence" Go, and members of the municipal council. Go expressed his gratitude for their continued support and partnership in serving the transport sector and the broader community.

Prior to the distribution, the senator visited local vendors and purchased kakanins as part of his continuing effort to encourage support for small entrepreneurs and local businesses. He also met a beneficiary who is a person with disability and personally provided him with a new walking cane.

As the activity concluded, Go reiterated his commitment to working closely with TODA members and local government officials to ensure that the transport sector remains resilient, productive, and adequately supported.

“Kasama ninyo ako sa pagsusulong ng mas maayos, mas ligtas, at mas maunlad na komunidad, dahil kasama 'yan sa aking bisyo, ang magserbisyo. Magkaisa po tayo para sa mas maliwanag na kinabukasan hindi lamang para sa inyong hanapbuhay kundi para na rin sa inyong mga pamilya at mga mahal sa buhay,” Go said.

On the same day, Go also provided assistance to barangay functionaries in Banaybanay and assisted vendors in Lupon. Go also attended the inauguration of Maco, Davao de Oro Super Health Center.


**gGo

Senator B**g Go hopeful Supreme Court will uphold interest of Filipinos amid oral arguments on unprogrammed appropriatio...
01/05/2026

Senator B**g Go hopeful Supreme Court will uphold interest of Filipinos amid oral arguments on unprogrammed appropriations

As the Supreme Court continues its oral arguments on the legality of unprogrammed appropriations in the 2024, 2025, and 2026 national budgets, Senator Christopher "B**g" Go expressed confidence that the High Court will carefully weigh the issues before it and uphold what is best for the Filipino people, especially those who depend on government assistance for their medical needs.

"Napakataas ng respeto natin sa Korte Suprema, sa karunungan ng ating mga mahistrado, at sa maingat nilang pagtalakay sa usaping ito. Buo ang tiwala natin na titingnan nila ito hindi lamang ayon sa batas kundi ayon din sa kapakanan ng mamamayang Pilipino," Go said.

"Sa dulo nito, ang mahalaga ay mapangalagaan ang pondo ng bayan at matiyak na nagagamit ito para sa mga serbisyong tunay na kailangan ng ating mga kababayan, lalo na sa usaping pangkalusugan," he added.

The High Court so far has held oral arguments on the consolidated petitions involving unprogrammed appropriations last April 7 and April 21. The proceedings covered issues involving the 2024, 2025, and 2026 General Appropriations Acts, including questions surrounding the use of standby or unprogrammed funds.

Go said that while the legal issues are complex, their consequences reach far beyond the courtroom and are felt by ordinary Filipinos who continue to struggle with hospital bills, maintenance medicines, dialysis, and other medical expenses.

"Habang tinatalakay ang mga technical at constitutional issues, sana ay manatiling malinaw sa ating lahat na may mga Pilipinong umaasa sa bawat pondong inilalabas ng gobyerno para sa kanilang gamutan at pang-araw-araw na pangangailangan. Kaya umaasa tayo na ang anumang magiging direksyon nito ay laging nakasentro sa kapakanan ng tao," the senator said.

The ongoing proceedings come after the Supreme Court's December 2025 ruling ordering the return of PhP60 billion in PhilHealth funds transferred to the National Treasury and permanently prohibiting the transfer of the remaining PhP29.9 billion fund balance.

For Go, the issue carries direct implications for public health services.

"Matagal ko nang sinasabi na ang pondo para sa kalusugan ay dapat mapunta sa kalusugan. Kapag usaping buhay, gamutan, at serbisyong medikal ang nakataya, bawat piso ay mahalaga. Marami sa ating mga kababayan ang kapos na kapos na, kaya napakahalaga na maprotektahan ang pondong para sa kanila," he said.

He added that he remains hopeful the Court's continuing review will help reinforce public trust in the handling of government funds and affirm the constitutional duty to use public resources responsibly.

"Naniniwala tayo sa integridad ng ating Korte Suprema. Umaasa tayo na sa kanilang maingat at patas na paghimay sa usaping ito, mananaig ang batas, katarungan, at higit sa lahat, ang interes ng sambayanang Pilipino," Go said.

As deliberations continue, Go said he will keep pushing for the protection of healthcare funds and other social services that directly benefit poor and vulnerable Filipinos.

"Ang hiling lang natin ay manatiling pangunahing konsiderasyon ang kapakanan ng ating mga kababayan. Sa usaping gaya nito, ang tunay na dapat mapangalagaan ay ang buhay, kalusugan, at dignidad ng bawat Pilipino," he concluded.

**gGo
**gGo

CHIZ: TAP P30-B RCEF FUNDS TO SHIELD FARMERS FROM EL NIÑO, RISING FUEL COSTSSenator Francis “Chiz” Escudero today urged ...
29/04/2026

CHIZ: TAP P30-B RCEF FUNDS TO SHIELD FARMERS FROM EL NIÑO, RISING FUEL COSTS

Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero today urged the government to tap the P30-billion Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF), created under Republic Act No. 11203, to finance interventions that go beyond short‑term cash aid to shield farmers from El Niño and rising global fuel costs.

Escudero pointed to the P15 billion allocation for “Other Priority Programs, Activities and Projects” under RCEF, or the Rice Tariffication Law, that could be redirected to interventions that “most effectively promote farmers’ productivity, supply resiliency, and address food security emergency situations on rice due to supply shortage or extraordinary increase in prices.”

“Isa pang pwede na makakatulong sa ating mga magsasaka ay yung portion ng P30 billion mula sa rice competitiveness enhancement program, specifically the P15 billion for other priority programs,” Escudero said, noting that this fund can be mobilized for expanded financial assistance, rice credit, and irrigation projects.

The veteran legislator emphasized that government interventions in this time of compounded crisis, marked by El Niño’s looming dry spell and global fuel shocks from Middle East tensions, must be forward looking.

“Makakatulong ang short-term and immediate ayuda subalit kailangan rin natin ng mga pangmatagalang programang magpapatibay sa produksyon at magbibigay ng kakayahan sa ating mga magsasaka na harapin ang tagtuyot at mataas na presyo ng langis,” he added.

Escudero’s shared his suggestion as the Department of Agriculture (DA) started rolling out the P10 billion Presidential Assistance for Farmers and Fisherfolk Program, which provides P2,325 each to more than 4.17 million farmers and fisherfolk nationwide.

The DA has described the cash aid as a lifeline against soaring fuel costs, with initial payouts already underway in Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Western Visayas, and Zamboanga Peninsula.

The Bicolano senator added that the goal is to strengthen farmers’ resilience. “Ang mahalaga ay matulungan silang makabangon at makapagpatuloy sa produksyon, upang manatiling matatag ang ating suplay ng pagkain kahit sa gitna ng krisis.”

Agriculture officials have acknowledged that the assistance is modest and primarily designed as short‑term relief. They are also bracing for a moderate to strong El Niño later this year, with the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Agency raising the likelihood of development to 79 percent by June.

The weather phenomenon is expected to bring prolonged dry conditions, strain irrigation systems, and cut farm output, particularly rice and corn.


CHIZ SAYS SM’S EXPANSION IN DAVAO TO SPREAD JOBS, BOOST ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES IN MINDANAO*Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero ...
27/04/2026

CHIZ SAYS SM’S EXPANSION IN DAVAO TO SPREAD JOBS, BOOST ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES IN MINDANAO*

Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero hailed business tycoon Hans T. Sy for the SM Group’s planned expansion in Davao and other parts of Mindanao, saying the move will further accelerate growth in the region.

At the same time, Escudero expressed hope that Sy’s confidence in Mindanao’s economy will inspire other major investors to follow suit and pour in fresh ventures across the island to generate jobs and increase economic activities.

Escudero said Sy’s remarks during his visit to Davao City over the weekend where he cited Mindanao’s promising growth and pledged to pour in more investments “reflect the kind of private‑sector engagement needed to spread development beyond traditional economic centers.”

“Hans Sy’s decision to expand further in Mindanao shows clear confidence in the region’s potential. If we want development to be truly national, we need more tycoons and major business groups to look toward Mindanao and the Visayas, not just the usual economic centers,” he said.

Sy, who chairs the executive committee of SM Prime Holdings, was in Davao to inaugurate National University Davao, its first campus in Mindanao and the university’s 15th nationwide. The business magnate said he was “more encouraged” to expand the SM Group’s footprint in the island after seeing the rapid transformation of Davao City and the strong performance of several Mindanao regions.

Escudero said the government should actively support investors who choose to build outside Metro Manila by ensuring stable policies, reliable infrastructure, and predictable regulatory processes.

He reiterated that broad‑based development requires both public and private‑sector commitment, adding that Sy’s announcement is a “positive signal” that should encourage similar initiatives from other major business groups to help generate jobs and accelerate economic activity across the country.


B**g Go honors volunteer responders and cites continuing push for health, disaster response, and grassroots service, att...
26/04/2026

B**g Go honors volunteer responders and cites continuing push for health, disaster response, and grassroots service, attends RECON Philippines 34th National Convention in Davao City

Senator Christopher "B**g" Go personally attended the 34th National Convention of the Radio Emergency Communication Operation Network (RECON) Philippines Inc. on Saturday, April 25, in Davao City, where he recognized the organization and its volunteer members for their role in emergency communication, disaster response, and community service.

Held at the Convention Hall of the Agdao Public Market in Davao City, the convention gathered nearly 300 volunteer members from various chapters across the country, including Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, and Basilan. The event was hosted by the RECON Davao Cluster and carried the theme, "Connected in Service, Empowering Response."

"Ang inyong kontribusyon sa ating lipunan ay hindi matatawaran. Kayo yung tumutulong sa panahon ng sakuna, panahon ng sunog, panahon ng baha. Kayo pa rin yung mga first responders. Salamat po sa inyong kontribusyon sa bayan," Go said.

Go also thanked the volunteers and the public for the trust and support extended to him in previous elections, saying this allowed him to continue his work in the Senate.

"Gusto ko pong magpasalamat sa inyong tulong, sa inyong tiwala, at suporta sa akin. Sa pagtulong ninyo, kay Tatay Digong, naging senador po ako noong 2019. At ngayong 2025, ginawa ninyo akong number one na senador sa buong Pilipinas. Maraming salamat sa inyong patuloy na suporta at tiwala," he said.

The senator also underscored the discipline and personal sacrifice required of volunteer responders, noting that their work demands time, readiness, and sincere concern for others. He linked their service to the value of malasakit, which he said must guide efforts to help fellow Filipinos.

"For almost four decades, RECON Philippines has stood as a symbol of volunteerism, discipline, and commitment to public service. Hindi madali ang maging volunteer responder. It requires time, sacrifice, and a genuine heart to serve others. Alam ninyo, 'yun palagi ang word sa akin, malasakit. 'Yun yung pagse-serbisyo natin. Dapat mayroon tayong malasakit at pagmamahal sa ating kapwa Pilipino. Ganoon din po ang mga ginagawa ninyo," Go said.

Recognizing the members present, Go thanked them for continuing to serve without expecting anything in return.

Turning to the convention theme, Go said "Connected in Service, Empowering Response" reflected the importance of communication, coordination, and shared purpose in emergency response and public service. He said such connection strengthens the ability of volunteers and communities to respond more effectively to different challenges.

During the program, Go also recognized RECON Philippines national officers led by National President Winston Abubakar, National Vice President Internal Arnold Jugan, National Vice President External Susanilo Malikay, National Treasurer Rogelio Susalo Sr., and National Treasurer Sayadi Paradji Jr.

Go likewise recognized other RECON officers and personnel. He also thanked participants from different RECON regions who joined the gathering.

Go, who serves as Vice Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health, then shared that his priorities for the next three years include Malasakit Centers, Super Health Centers, and Regional Specialty Centers.

"Ang Malasakit Center, one-stop shop. Batas na siya. Karapatan na ng bawat Pilipino na humingi ng tulong sa gobyerno. Hindi na siya sari-sariling pila. One-stop shop lang siya. Lalapit na lang sa isang kuwarto para makahingi ng tulong sa gobyerno," he added.

Malasakit Centers are one-stop shops aiming to support impoverished patients in reducing their hospital costs to the least possible amount. Go is the principal author and sponsor of Republic Act No. 11463, or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which institutionalized the Malasakit Centers program.

As of now, 167 Malasakit Centers are operational across the country, poised to assist with patients' medical expenses. The Department of Health (DOH) reports that the Malasakit Center program has already provided aid to more than 17 million Filipinos.

The senator also cited the Super Health Center initiative as part of his continuing health agenda, saying such facilities help bring basic services closer to communities, including laboratory and X-ray services.

To illustrate the importance of accessible healthcare facilities, Go recalled visiting a Super Health Center in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, where he saw how distance from medical care can become critical for residents in remote areas.

Go then shared an encounter from the visit involving a mother who had given birth, saying such moments show the real meaning of service in communities.

From that experience, Go returned to the lesson he said he learned from former president Rodrigo Duterte, emphasizing service that reaches people directly and puts ordinary Filipinos first.

"Doon ko natutunan kay Tatay Digong na ang serbisyo, diretso sa puso. Diretso sa kasing-kasing. Hindi naman bumubuhay ang politika. Ang bumubuhay sa atin ay serbisyo," Go said.

He said Duterte had repeatedly reminded him to prioritize the poor, the people, and the country.

"Sabi ni Tatay Digong sa akin, 'Unahin mo yung mga mahihirap. Unahin mo ang interes ng Pilipino. At unahin mo ang interes ng bayan.' 'Yun po, palagi niyang pinaalala sa akin," he said.

As he neared the end of his speech, Go again praised RECON members, saying people remember those who come to their aid in times of need. He said this is the kind of service the organization has provided to communities.

"Natuto ako kay Tatay Digong. Kapag tinulungan mo ang tao sa panahon na kailangan ka nila, hindi ka nila makakalimutan. Tulad ng RECON, sa panahon na kailangan ang inyong trabaho, nandiyan kayo. Hindi kayo makakalimutan ng mga natulungan ninyo. Salamat sa inyo, RECON," he said.

Go ended his message by urging the volunteers to keep doing good for others while they have the opportunity to serve, adding that he would continue serving Filipinos.

"Mga kaibigan, gawin natin kung ano ang kaya nating gawin para sa ating kapwa. Tandaan natin, minsan lang tayo dadaan sa mundong ito. Kung ano ang kabutihan na pwede nating gawin sa ating kapwa, gawin na natin ngayon dahil hindi na tayo babalik sa mundong ito," Go said.

"Ako ang inyong senador, Kuya B**g Go. Patuloy akong magseserbisyo sa inyong lahat dahil bisyo ko ang magserbisyo. Naniniwala ako na ang serbisyo sa tao ay serbisyo sa Diyos," he added.

"Maraming salamat sa inyong lahat. Mabuhay ang RECON Philippines. Mabuhay kayong lahat," he concluded.

**gGo
**gGo

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