Bong Go vows continued public service during KABAKA’s 39th anniversary
SENATOR Christopher “Bong” Go joined the 39th anniversary celebration of the Kabalikat ng Bayan sa Kaunlaran (KABAKA) Foundation on December 9 and 10, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Malate, Manila. The event brought together community leaders and members to honor the foundation’s nearly four decades of commitment to social welfare and community development.
“Kanina po, maraming nagpapasalamat. Sabi ko, huwag kayong magpasalamat sa akin. Ako ang dapat magpasalamat sa inyo dahil binigyan niyo po ako ng pagkakataon na makapagserbisyo sa inyong lahat,” Go remarked during his speech.
KABAKA is a non-stock, non-profit organization that focuses on serving Filipinos by giving scholarships, and health and developmental programs for residents of the five districts in Manila. The organization was founded in 1985 by former Congressman Amado Bagatsing. During the gathering, Go was declared an adopted member of the organization.
In his address, Senator Go underscored his legislative priorities, which closely align with KABAKA’s mission, particularly in healthcare, education, and skills development programs.
As chairperson of the Senate Health Committee and a health reforms crusader, Go reiterated his commitment to making healthcare accessible to all Filipinos. He highlighted the accomplishments of his priority initiatives, including Malasakit Centers, Super Health Centers, and Regional Specialty Centers.
The Malasakit Centers program, initiated by Go in 2018 and institutionalized under Republic Act 11463, aims to provide financial assistance to indigent patients. To date, 166 Malasakit Centers have been established nationwide, benefitting over 15 million Filipinos, according to the Department of Health.
The Super Health Centers initiative offers primary healthcare services at the community level. Through collaborative efforts between Go, fellow lawmakers, DOH led by Secretary Teodoro “Ted” Herbosa, and local government units, funding has been secured for over 700 Super Health Centers across the country.
The Regional Specialty Centers Act under RA 11959, which Go championed as its principal author and sponsor, seeks to bring specialized medical services closer to Filipinos in provinces and regions outside Metro Manila.
Senator Go also emphasized the importance of practical, community-centered solutions to uplift lives, reflecting KABAKA’s vision of fostering self-reliance and social progress.
The celebration highlighted the KABAKA Foundation’s role as a driving force in community empowerment and nation-building. Through its initiatives, the foundation continues to inspire hope and provide vital support to underserved Filipinos.
During the event, Go extended his gratitude to KABAKA officials, mainly to its founder and former Congressman Amado Bagatsing. He also acknowledged notable attendees such as Councilor Bobby Espiritu, Councilor Attorney Jaybee Hizon, Councilor Mon Yupango, and former Congw. Cristal Bagatsing, among others.
