SBG pushes for streamlining of “ayuda” for calamity victims

On Nov 14, 2022

Senator Christopher ‘Bong’ Go, congratulating Philippine pole vault champion, Ernest John ‘EJ’ Obiena, during the latter’s courtesy call at the Senate. The Senate has passed Resolution No. 18, series of 2022, co-authored by Go, commending Obiena for his latest achievements in sports that have brought fame and glory to the country (photo courtesy of SBG office).

IN LIGHT of the ongoing pandemic and recent disasters that have struck the country, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has urged local government units and national government agencies to improve efficiency and streamline the delivery of assistance to those worst hit and most affected communities.

“Ako po, nakikiusap rin po ako not only sa mga national government agencies. Lahat, sa LGU, sa lahat po ng ahensya ng gobyerno na bilisan po ang pamamahagi ng ayuda,” said Go in an ambush interview after personally aiding flood victims in Roxas City, Capiz on Friday, November 12, 2022.

“Kung mayroong mga relief goods, ibahagi kaagad,” he emphasized.

Go explained that the victims should not have to suffer from the process involved in claiming aid.

To recall, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) secretary, Erwin Tulfo, was forced to temporarily suspend DSWD officials in Calabarzon and Cavite over complaints by typhoon victims over “excessive” requirements before they can avail of relief assistance from the department.

“Ibigay na kaagad ‘yung pagkain dahil unang-una, pera nila yang pera ng gobyerno. Kapag galing sa national government agencies, ibigay kaagad sa mga kababayan natin. Huwag nang tagalan,” he reminded.

In the aftermath of the recent disaster brought by Typhoon Paeng, Go himself emphasized how important it is to provide aid and services to those who require them the most, including goods and items that have been donated, and he urged government agencies to avoid delays in the delivery of these services.

“Kung mayro’n mang mga donated items, ibigay kaagad. Bahala nang mag-doble. Ang importante walang magutom,” said Go.

He went on to stress the importance of ensuring that no Filipino goes hungry in the face of natural disasters, especially the poor, so that they would have the strength to recover quickly.

On the same day, Go assisted the transport workers in the town of Balasan in Iloilo province and attended the opening and turnover of the Balasan Transport Terminal.

The solon also carried out an inspection of the Estancia Public Market, a project that he had helped to fund. He also assisted individuals operating microbusinesses in Estancia.

The senator then assisted those who were recovering from the effects of Typhoon Agaton in the town of Anilao and conducted an inspection of the Super Health Center there.