Senator Bong Go emphasized the importance of making financial assistance more accessible following the approval on third and final reading of Senate Bill No. 155, a measure seeking to simplify documentary requirements for Filipinos applying for government financial assistance.
SBN 155 aims to remove unnecessary hurdles that often prevent poor and vulnerable Filipinos from immediately receiving much-needed aid, especially during medical emergencies, disasters, and other crises.
Alisin na po natin ang mga unnecessary at napakahabang proseso na mas nagpapatagal pa sa pagbigay ng dekalidad na serbisyo.”
“Napakahalaga po na mailapit natin ang serbisyo ng gobyerno, lalo na para sa mga kababayan natin na walang-wala sa buhay. Alisin na po natin ang mga unnecessary at napakahabang proseso na mas nagpapatagal pa sa pagbigay ng dekalidad na serbisyo,” Go said.
As co-author of the bill, the senator emphasized that government assistance should be felt when it is most needed, not buried under layers of paperwork. The veteran legislator emphasized that many Filipinos seeking financial aid are already burdened by illness and should not be required to endure additional hardship to prove their eligibility.
“Ang tulong ng gobyerno ay hindi dapat magbigay ng karagdagang bigat sa ating mga kababayan.”
“Kung gusto nating seryosong tugunan ang problema, kailangan sabayan ng mabilis na proseso. Ang tulong ng gobyerno ay hindi dapat magbigay ng karagdagang bigat sa ating mga kababayan,” the seasoned lawmaker pointed out.
The senator underscored that by simplifying requirements, government agencies can respond more swiftly to urgent needs while still maintaining accountability and proper safeguards.
He also mentioned about the Republic Act No. 11463, or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which he principally authored and sponsored. The law provides a similar goal, institutionalizing one-stop shops for government medical assistance for faster and efficient medicial assistance.
At present, 167 Malasakit Centers operate nationwide and have already assisted more than 17 million Filipinos, according to the Department of Health.
A consistent advocate for social protection and inclusive public service, Go reiterated that the passage of SBN 155 is a significant step toward ensuring that government programs truly serve their intended beneficiaries.
The approval of the measure on third reading signifies his resolve to streamline bureaucracy and bring government services closer to the people.
“Patuloy akong susuporta sa mga inisyatibang magpapabilis ng serbisyo para sa ating kapwa Pilipino,” he concluded.
