Photo credit: Bong Go

Senator Bong Go made a heartfelt plea in the Senate on Wednesday, November 13, calling for the restoration of the Office of the Vice President's (OVP) budget for 2025. He argued that cutting the OVP's funds would reduce the office's ability to provide crucial assistance, particularly for Filipinos who are struggling and in dire need of help.

“Maraming naghihirap na nangangailangan ng tulong mula sa gobyerno. Huwag natin ipagkait sa opisinang may mandato na tumulong,” Go emphasized, pointing out how vital these funds are for programs that offer immediate support to citizens facing hardships, especially those impacted by natural disasters.

The budget proposal, which initially set aside PHP 2.026 billion for the OVP, was significantly reduced by PHP 1.3 billion, leaving only PHP 733 million. Go highlighted how these cuts threaten key OVP programs that many Filipinos rely on, including initiatives like Magnegosyo Ta Day for small business owners, and essential assistance programs covering educational, medical, and burial needs.

"Kung gusto magtrabaho ng ating Bise Presidente, bigyan natin siya ng pagkakataong magtrabaho," Go stated, arguing that the Vice President's role is far more than just ceremonial. He stressed that the Vice President, elected by the people, has a duty to actively serve and respond to the needs of Filipinos, which demands sufficient funding.

One of Go’s biggest concerns was the impact on the OVP’s Disaster Response Program, a critical lifeline during times of calamity. This program provides essential aid to affected communities, from relief packs to emergency assistance, and Go warned that scaling it back could leave many vulnerable Filipinos at risk during future disasters.

Go urged his fellow senators to support restoring the OVP’s budget, saying, “Sana madagdagan o maibalik ang pondo… para mas marami pang mabigyan ng tulong.” He reminded them that the government’s role is to serve the people, especially those who need it the most, and that limiting the OVP’s resources ultimately limits the help it can extend.

“Gusto ng ating Bise Presidente na magtrabaho, huwag natin pilayan ang gustong magtrabaho,” he added, making it clear that the Vice President's office should be empowered, not hindered, in its mission to assist Filipinos in need.

Go ended with a reminder that in challenging times, Filipinos look to their leaders for genuine care and support. “Lalo na ngayon, panahon ng bagyo at dami pong naghihirap. Magtulungan tayo,” he urged, hoping for a unified push to restore the OVP’s budget so it can continue fulfilling its mandate of service to the nation.