Senator Christopher Go urged elected barangay and Sanggunian Kabataan officials to prioritize the welfare of constituents and help the poor.
He emphasized the importance of respecting the democratic processes and the voice of the people after the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) on Monday.
Go also said winning candidates and the electorate should embody the values of responsibility and discernment associated with suffrage.
“The outcomes of the BSKE are a direct reflection of the people’s voice. It’s imperative that we, as a nation, respect and uphold the choices made by our fellow Filipinos,” Go said.
He further emphasized the importance of selecting candidates with integrity, competence, and a genuine desire to serve their communities, especially those who are underprivileged and in need of more government attention.
“Now that the elections are over, let us join hands for the good of our community. to those elected, you have to give priority to the needy “ he said, adding that “to the newly elected barangay and SK officials, remember that the public has placed their trust in you.”
Go further said: “I hope that you will always prioritize the welfare of your constituents, especially the poor, the hopeless and the helpless, because this is the essence of public service. Remember that public office is a public trust. Do not waste the opportunity and the privilege to be able to serve your fellow Filipinos.”
In a bid to strengthen barangay governance, Go has filed Senate Bill No. 197, or the Magna Carta for Barangays. He said that policymakers must first be able to strengthen and support the basic unit of government at the barangay level to be able to promote good governance and bring public services closer to those in need.
“If this proposal is passed into law, barangay officials may hopefully be given benefits similar to regular government employees.
Moroever, if approved, it also aims to allocate sufficient resources for the improvements of public services at the barangay level,” he explained.
Go also filed SBN 427 or the Barangay Health Workers Compensation Bill. If enacted into law, the proposal aims to grant BHWs a monthly honorarium, coupled with other benefits such as allowances, job security, consistent training, and opportunities for skill development.
He also continues to exert efforts to bridge the gap between those serving in the grassroots and those in the national level.
“Regardless of what position we serve, we must work together to improve public service delivery in the grassroots where the real situation of our people is evident,” Go reminded.