Photo credit: Bong Go

Over the weekend, former President Rodrigo Duterte and Senator Christopher “Bong” Go made a significant trip to Hong Kong to engage with Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and express their heartfelt gratitude for the sacrifices they’ve made for the country.

The event, organized by the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) in collaboration with various OFW organizations in Hong Kong and Macau, served as a platform for the Duterte Senatorial Slate to connect with the Filipino community abroad.

Speaking to a crowd of OFWs from all walks of life, Senator Go, with his distinct Bisaya roots, emphasized the strong values of loyalty and gratitude that bind Filipinos. “Tayong mga Bisaya, pare-pareho tayong may prinsipyo. Ang utang na loob, hindi natin nakakalimutan. Kaya nandito ako ngayon,” he shared, reinforcing the deep bond between him and Filipino migrant workers.

In his speech, Go highlighted his unwavering commitment to supporting OFWs, citing his instrumental role in the creation of Republic Act No. 11641, which led to the establishment of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). The law, signed by Duterte in December 2021, aimed to consolidate government services for OFWs, ensuring better protection and support for them.

Go also took the opportunity to address the ongoing efforts to improve healthcare for OFWs, mentioning his proposed Senate Bill No. 2297 to institutionalize the OFW Hospital in San Fernando, Pampanga, which was established during the Duterte administration. He also introduced Senate Bill No. 2990, which seeks to expand the hospital’s capacity to better serve migrant workers and their families.

As part of his ongoing advocacy for migrant workers, Senator Go introduced the "OFW Ward Act" (SBN 2414), which would require all Department of Health hospitals to have dedicated wards for OFWs and their families if passed into law.

The event also featured moving testimonies from OFWs who shared how these initiatives had positively impacted their lives, highlighting the Duterte administration’s lasting legacy and the importance of continuous support for Filipino workers abroad.

Senator Go, a long-time champion of accessible healthcare, also reiterated his advocacy for the continuation of Malasakit Centers, which provide medical assistance to indigent Filipinos. As the principal sponsor of the Malasakit Centers Act, he was proud to announce that 167 Malasakit Centers are already operating nationwide, helping over 17 million Filipinos with healthcare needs.

Additionally, Go emphasized the expansion of Super Health Centers, which will provide essential medical services in underserved communities, and the creation of regional specialty centers to address more specific healthcare needs.

Before wrapping up, Go told the crowd, “Ang hirap na mawalay sa pamilya at mangibang bansa para lang bigyan ng magandang kinabukasan ang kanilang mga anak. Kaya nandito po kami para magmalasakit sa inyo at ipakita na hindi namin kayo pabababayaan."

He ended his speech with a heartfelt promise: “Hindi ko malilimutan ang inyong suporta at tulong… Nandito lang ang inyong Kuya Bong Go na handang magserbisyo sa inyo sa abot ng aking makakaya.”

In his message, Duterte proudly endorsed Senator Go, recalling how they first crossed paths when Go served as his aide during his time as mayor. He spoke of Go’s loyalty, intelligence, and relentless dedication to public service, highlighting how Go’s humble beginnings led him to become a senator known for his hands-on approach to leadership.

“‘Ito ‘yung si Bong Go. Noon, for the longest time, nakikita n’yo, mayor ako, ito ‘yung aide ko,” Duterte shared with pride, underscoring the strong foundation of trust and respect between the two.

The event was a powerful reminder of the Duterte administration’s ongoing commitment to Filipino migrant workers, with Senator Go continuing to champion their welfare both through legislation and personal engagement.