Press Release - Bong Go pushes for more livelihood opportunities for Filipinos in crisis as he assists displaced workers in Dumarao, Capiz

Senator Christopher "Bong" Go has coordinated with Mayor Matt Hachuela to assist 381 displaced workers in Dumarao, Capiz.

Go's outreach team joined the relief operation at the Civic Center Venue on Thursday, October 12, and provided snacks, shirts, and balls for basketball and volleyball to the affected workers.

The beneficiaries also qualified for livelihood support from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) after they have completed DOLE's Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/ Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program.

"Patuloy po tayong magtulungan upang mas mapabuti pa ang kalagayan ng ating mga disadvantaged at displaced workers. Magkasama tayo sa layuning ito na makabuo ng mas maginhawa at mas matatag na lipunan para sa lahat ng Pilipino," he said.

Go underscored the importance of safeguarding the welfare of marginalized laborers, with a particular focus on those residing in rural areas, and in need of increased economic prospects.

Senate Bill No. (SBN) 420, which was introduced by Go, proposes to establish a system designed to provide short-term job opportunities for eligible individuals hailing from underprivileged households in rural regions. Within the framework of this proposed legislation, the Rural Employment Assistance Program (REAP) would be instituted under the DOLE.

If this bill becomes a law, the primary objective of REAP would be to offer temporary employment opportunities to individuals who qualify as economically disadvantaged, impoverished, displaced, or seasonal workers.

Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, offered additional assistance to residents with medical concerns. He advised them to visit the Roxas Memorial Provincial Hospital in Roxas City, where there is a Malasakit Center ready to help them should they need assistance with their medical bills.

Principally authored and sponsored by Go, the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019 aims to provide indigent Filipino patients with convenient access to the medical assistance programs offered by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office.