Senator Bong Go appealed to Filipinos to remain cautious as the traditional Christmas rush fills malls, transport hubs, and public venues.
Go reminded the public that the excitement of celebrations should not overshadow basic health practices that safeguard families and communities.
The veteran legislator emphasized that the holidays—while a time for gatherings—often bring increased risk of respiratory infections and accidents in crowded spaces.
The seasoned lawmaker noted that responsible behavior, early planning, and community awareness can prevent avoidable harm.
“‘Pag may nararamdaman, magpahinga na muna at huwag nang piliting lumabas.”
“Masarap magdiwang kasama ang pamilya at kaibigan, pero huwag nating kalimutan ang simpleng pag-iingat. ‘Pag may nararamdaman, magpahinga na muna at huwag nang piliting lumabas. Ingatan natin ang sarili at ang mga mahal natin sa buhay,” the senator stressed.
As Vice Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health, Go reiterated his call for personal accountability in maintaining well-being. He explained that public health systems often face pressure during high-mobility periods, citing the seasonal increase in consultations and emergency room visits.
This concern directly ties into the ongoing health reforms he has championed, including institutional support mechanisms designed to alleviate the financial burden on vulnerable Filipinos.
Go is the principal author and sponsor of Republic Act No. 11463, or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which institutionalized the Malasakit Centers program nationwide.
Malasakit Centers are one-stop shops that aim to support impoverished patients in reducing their hospital costs to the lowest possible amount.
As of now, 167 Malasakit Centers are operational across the country, poised to assist with patients’ medical expenses. The Department of Health reports that the program has already provided aid to more than 17 million Filipinos.
He remarked that easing access to healthcare during stressful periods becomes even more important when communities are vulnerable to seasonal illnesses.
“Bawat taong pumupunta sa ospital sa panahong ganito ay may kwento ng pagod, sakit, o aksidente.”
“Bawat taong pumupunta sa ospital sa panahong ganito ay may kwento ng pagod, sakit, o aksidente. Kung maiiwasan natin, gawin na natin ngayon pa lang,” Go said, noting that simple choices—such as wearing masks when unwell and avoiding overcrowded spaces—can reduce transmission of common illnesses.
He also pointed to ongoing efforts to enhance primary care capacity, particularly in grassroots communities. Go discussed the role of Super Health Centers as local health hubs designed to focus on basic services such as consultation, primary care, and early disease detection.
Free consultations would be handled by municipal health offices, local government units, and the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation through its Konsulta program. Go emphasized that strengthening access to preventive services in communities reduces pressure on hospitals, particularly during high-demand periods, such as the holiday rush.
He also touched on traffic congestion, prolonged travel times, and the stresses placed on workers, commuters, and delivery personnel in December. Go encouraged employers and families to recognize the toll these conditions can take.
He concluded with a reminder rooted in empathy rather than alarm. Go stressed that health precautions should not be taken as restrictions but as a collective responsibility.
“Ang diwa ng pasko ay pagmamahalan at pag-alala sa isa’t isa,” he noted.
“Kung tutulong tayo at magmamalasakit sa kapwa sa simpleng paraan, kusa nating naiiwasan ang problema at nakakapagbigay tayo ng ginhawa sa kapwa,” Go concluded.
