Bong Go pushes for stronger pro-poor programs amid mixed economic sentiments in SWS survey

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening pro-poor programs that address the country’s economic challenges, including job creation, social welfare, wage increases, and agricultural support.

As part of his legislative priorities, Go continues to advocate for policies that uplift underprivileged sectors, ensuring that essential services such as healthcare, food security, and livelihood opportunities remain accessible to all.

His renewed push for pro-poor policies comes in light of recent economic data that reflects the mixed sentiments of Filipinos regarding their quality of life. A survey conducted by the Social Weather Stations (SWS), commissioned by Stratbase Group, revealed that while 32% of respondents said their quality of life had improved in the past year, this was a decline from the 36% recorded in December 2024. Meanwhile, those who felt their situation had worsened increased to 25% from 23%, while 43% reported no change.

“Alam natin na marami pa ring Pilipino ang nahihirapan sa araw-araw. Kaya’t patuloy nating ipaglalaban ang mga programang direktang makakatulong sa kanila—mula sa pagkain sa hapag hanggang sa pagkakaroon ng disenteng hanapbuhay,” Mr. Malasakit emphasized.

“Huwag nating pahirapan ang naghihirap na. Ilapit natin ang serbisyo ng gobyerno na kailangan nila upang makaahon sa hirap. Sikapin nating walang maiwan sa ating pag-unlad,” he added.

Go has long been a advocate of programs that provide direct support to marginalized communities. One of his key proposals is the institutionalization of the Rural Employment Assistance Program (REAP), a bill he has filed in the Senate.

If enacted into law, REAP seeks to provide temporary employment to economically disadvantaged, displaced, or seasonal workers in rural areas, ensuring that those in need have opportunities to earn a living while contributing to local infrastructure and community projects.

Additionally, Go has been pushing for wage increases and the enactment of Salary Standardization Law 6 (SSL 6) to provide better compensation for government workers.

Recognizing the growing number of freelancers in the digital economy, he is also advocating for his filed Freelance Workers Protection Bill, which aims to safeguard their rights and ensure fair compensation.

His proposed Food, Grocery, and Pharmacy Delivery Services Protection Act that he filed further expands his pro-labor agenda by ensuring that delivery riders and drivers are protected from unfair business practices, recognizing their critical role in modern commerce.

“Marami sa ating mga kababayan ang umaasa sa kanilang arawang kita. Dapat siguraduhin natin na patas ang kanilang sahod at protektado ang kanilang mga karapatan sa trabaho. Patuloy lang ako sa pagseserbisyo sa abot ng aking makakaya,” Go said.

Go also continues to push for expanded government investment in farm-to-market roads, irrigation systems, and post-harvest facilities, ensuring that small farmers and fisherfolk receive the necessary support to thrive.

“Kapag malakas ang sektor ng agrikultura, masisigurado nating walang Pilipinong magugutom, at may mas maraming trabaho para sa ating kababayan,” he added.

As Go seeks a fresh mandate in the 2025 senatorial elections, he remains focused on expanding social services, ensuring wage and employment security, and strengthening government support for vulnerable sectors. His track record includes significant contributions to healthcare access, livelihood programs, and housing assistance—all of which directly impact the daily lives of millions of Filipinos.

“Ang malasakit sa tao ang dapat palaging inuuna. Hindi tayo titigil sa pagsusulong ng mga programang magbibigay ng ginhawa sa pang-araw-araw na pamumuhay ng ating mga kababayan,” Go assured.

He also called on national agencies, local government units, and private sector stakeholders to work together in implementing long-term solutions for economic stability. With many Filipinos still struggling with the rising cost of living, Go vowed to continue advocating for policies that prioritize the welfare of ordinary citizens, ensuring that no one is left behind.

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