Press Release - Bong Go highlights importance of health in promoting a productive citizenry as he continues his pursuit to bring improved healthcare services closer to the people

Senator Christopher "Bong" Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, stressed the need for enhanced and more accessible healthcare services after a recent OCTA Research poll indicating that health remains the top concern among Filipinos.

The OCTA's Tugon ng Masa, conducted from December 10 to 14, revealed that 71 percent of respondents prioritized staying healthy and avoiding illness, marking an increase from a previous survey.

Go emphasized that good health is key for Filipinos to become productive citizens, even stressing that health equates to life itself: "pangalagaan natin ang ating kalusugan. Tandaan na ang kalusugan ay katumbas ng buhay ng bawat Pilipino."

"Our people's health cannot take a backseat. This is not just about combating diseases but a holistic approach to ensuring every Filipino has access to medical services, adequate nutrition, and a healthy environment," he explained.

The survey also highlighted the growing concern about food security, with 50 percent of respondents stressing the importance of having enough to eat daily, a noticeable increase from the previous poll. This rise in concern is parallel to the reported increase in involuntary hunger, jumping from 10 percent in October 2023 to 14 percent in December.

Go added, "Ang pagkakaroon ng sapat na pagkain at ang kalusugan ay magkaugnay na hamon na hindi natin maaaring pabayaan. Kailangan nating doblehin ang ating mga pagsisikap upang harapin ang mga hamong ito."

In light of these challenges, the senator shed light on the grim reality many Filipinos face: the exorbitant cost of healthcare. For countless families, a single illness can obliterate savings, leading to the mortgaging or selling of properties.

In other circumstances, education takes a backseat as children leave school to work, contributing to the family's survival rather than pursuing their studies.

Recognizing this dire situation, Go, the principal author and sponsor of Republic Act No. 11463, also known as the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, has fervently advocated for the continuing operations of the Malasakit Centers program.

Malasakit centers synergize efforts from various government agencies,