IN a show of support for local governance, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go personally attended the annual general assembly of the Philippine League of Secretaries to the Sanggunian, Inc. in Davao City at the Apo View Hotel in Davao City.

In his speech, Go acknowledged the challenges faced by local community officials and committed to support them in fostering stronger ties between the national and local levels of governance.

“Galing ako sa mababa. Alam ko kung ano ang pinakaproblema sa pinakamababa. So salamat sa inyong pagserbisyo sa ating mga kababayan. Magkakasama tayo. Sino ba ang magtutulungan kung ‘di tayo lang, mga kababayan natin,” he said.

The senator also emphasized the importance of empowering local leaders down to the grassroots and providing them with the necessary tools to effectively serve their constituents. He recognized their crucial role as intermediaries between local government officials and the general public, ensuring that the concerns and needs of citizens are addressed.

“Mawalang galang lang po, kasi lagi ko naririnig na ‘salamat (dating) presidente (Rodrigo) Duterte, salamat Senator Bong Go, salamat sa mga proyekto (at) sa mga tulong ninyo.’ (Pero) huwag kayong magpasalamat sa amin (dahil) trabaho namin yan. Sa totoo lang, kami ang dapat na magpasalamat sa inyo dahil binigyan nyo kami ng pagkakataon na makapagserbisyo sa inyo,” said Go.

“I extend my heartfelt appreciation for your tireless efforts and unwavering commitment in serving our country at the grassroots level. Your dedication and hard work are truly commendable,” he highlighted.

Furthermore, Senator Go highlighted the significance of collaboration and unity among local government units to promote inclusive and sustainable development. He stressed the need for sharing best practices, exchanging innovative ideas, and coordinating efforts to achieve common goals.

“As public servants, we hold a crucial role in shaping the future of our local communities. We are the bridge that connects the aspirations of our constituents to the policies and programs that will make a positive difference in their lives. Your role as secretaries to the Sanggunian plays a vital part in ensuring the smooth functioning and effective governance of our local government units,” Go underscored.

The senator assured the secretaries to the Sanggunian of his unwavering support in their endeavors, promising to push for legislation that will further strengthen local governance and empower local leaders.

Go continues to push for Senate Bill No. 197 which seeks to provide a Magna Carta for Barangays. He likewise filed SBN 427 which aims to mandate the provision of allowances and incentives to barangay health workers.

If SBN 197 is enacted, barangay officials will be treated as regular government employees. The Punong Barangay, members of the Sangguniang Barangay, the Sangguniang Kabataan chairperson, the barangay secretary and barangay treasurer will be entitled to salaries, emoluments, allowances such as hazard pay, representation and transportation allowance, 13th month pay and other benefits that regular government employees enjoy.

On the other hand, if SBN 427 is passed into law, a monthly allowance of PhP3,000 will be provided to all barangay health workers and they will also be entitled to security of tenure and other benefits and privileges.

“As your partner in the Senate, I am committed to supporting LGUs in their pursuit of socio-economic development. I will continue to advocate for policies that empower LGUs, streamline bureaucratic processes, and promote accountability in governance. Sa abot ng aking makakaya, tutulong at susuporta ako sa inyong mga programa lalo na kung ito ay para sa ikakabuti ng sambayanan,” he continued.

Earlier that day, Go was in the province of Agusan del Norte where he personally spearheaded a relief operation, attended the groundbreaking ceremony of a Super Health Center and inspected the ongoing construction of a bridge in Las Nieves, which he supported the funding of.

He also visited Butuan City where he inspected the city’s Super Health Center and likewise led another distribution activity for more indigents.