Bong Go highlights need for sustainable tourism

SENATOR Christopher Lawrence “Bong” T. Go emphasized the importance of sustainable tourism and environmental protection during the Philippine Councilor’s League Occidental Mindoro General Assembly held on August 3 at Acacia Hotel in Davao City.

Go recounted his travels across the country and his efforts to provide assistance during natural disasters such as typhoons, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions.

The senator’s speech took a focused turn towards the theme of the assembly, “Mobilizing Legislation and Governance through Sustainable Tourism and Environmental Protection,” emphasizing the importance of sustainable tourism practices and the need to preserve the country’s natural resources.

“Tourism can be a powerful catalyst for economic growth, creating jobs and generating revenue. However, it must be done in a manner that respects our ecosystems and preserves the very attractions that draw visitors to our shores,” Go stated.

He also emphasized the importance of community-based tourism initiatives, saying that “engaging in community-based tourism initiatives can empower our people, allowing them to actively participate in decision-making processes and benefit equitably from tourism-related activities.”

In addition to tourism, Go talked about the critical importance of environmental protection. He called on the councilors to pass ordinances that safeguard natural heritage, regulate land use, and curb activities that degrade the environment.

“Our biodiversity is a treasure that must be preserved for future generations. From our lush forests to our pristine beaches, every ecosystem plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance,” he said.

Go co-authored Senate Bill 1841, which seeks to enhance the preservation and safeguarding of the cultural heritage of the Philippines by means of cultural mapping.

Meanwhile, Go also shared his priorities as chairperson of the Committee on Health, including the expansion of the “Malasakit Center” program and the establishment of super health centers (SHCs).

Malasakit Centers bring together representatives from the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Health (DOH), the Philippine Health Insurance Corp., and the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. These one-stop shops aim to support impoverished patients in reducing their hospital costs to the least possible amount.

Go is the principal author and sponsor of Republic Act 11463 (Malasakit Centers Act of 2019), which institutionalized the Malasakit Centers program.

To date, 158 operational centers have helped more than seven million Filipinos nationwide, according to DOH.

He also reiterated his commitment to support the establishment of more SHCs across the country, considering how they can significantly help reduce hospital occupancy rates while bringing government medical services closer to the grassroots.

Services offered in the SHCs include database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray and ultrasound), pharmacy and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service, oncology centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation center and telemedicine.

Go called for unity and collaboration across political affiliations and geographical boundaries.

He encouraged the councilors to learn from successful initiatives in other regions and adapt them to the unique needs of Occidental Mindoro.

“Let us unite and rise to the occasion, embracing the theme of this assembly with determination and dedication. Together, we can create a legacy of responsible stewardship that will leave a lasting impact on future generations,” he said.