Bong Go continues push for inclusive economic recovery

MANILA, Philippines — A day after filing his candidacy for the 2025 senatorial elections, Sen. Bong Go continued his commitment to help those in need by personally extending assistance to 1,124 indigents in Caraga, Davao Oriental, composed of farmers, fisherfolk and senior citizens.

Held last Friday at the Barangay Poblacion evacuation center, the event was made possible through Go’s partnership with Vice Mayor Melody Anne Benitez and Councilors Jemaika Balante, Belshazzar Sobrecarey and Orly Benaning.

Go, long known for his dedication to help ensure that no Filipino is left behind, has always been a strong advocate for various vulnerable sectors of society.

Through the efforts of Go, local officials and the national government, each disadvantaged resident received financial assistance.

They also received basic goods like grocery packs, shirts, masks, vitamins and snacks.

There were also select recipients of basketballs, volleyballs, bicycles, mobile phones, shoes and a watch.

“The farmers and fisherfolk are the backbone of our nation’s food supply and our senior citizens are the guardians of our values and history,” Go said.

He also stressed that these sectors are crucial to the town’s progress, which is why he has supported numerous legislative measures aimed at improving their welfare and ensuring they have access to essential services.

Last February, Republic Act (RA) 11982 or the Amendments to the Centenarian Act was signed into law by President Marcos, which Go co-authored and co-sponsored in the Senate.

The law now includes cash gifts for Filipinos aged 80, 85, 90 and 95, amounting to P10,000 each, in addition to the existing P100,000 cash gift for centenarians.

Likewise, Go previously co-authored RA 11916 or the Act Increasing the Social Pension of Indigent Senior Citizens which amended RA 7432, the first Senior Citizens Act.

Go was one of the authors of RA 11901, or the Agriculture, Fisheries and Rural Development Financing Enhancement Act of 2022, which enhanced the financial structure supporting agriculture, fisheries and rural development.

This law is designed to offer improved access to credit for rural communities, particularly benefiting farmers,