Go pushes wage hikes to ease burden on families

CEBU, Philippines — Senator Christopher “Bong” Go is pushing measures to increase workers’ wages, expand employment opportunities, and improve access to healthcare as Filipino families continue to struggle with rising prices and the increasing cost of living.

During a Senate hearing on the Department of Labor and Employment’s proposed 2027 budget earlier this month, Go also urged labor officials to pursue meaningful wage adjustments outside Metro Manila, particularly in provinces where workers are also affected by rising commodity prices.

“The prices of goods continue to increase faster than wages,” Go said.

Among his legislative proposals is Senate Bill No. 175, or the proposed ?100 Daily Minimum Wage Increase Act of 2025, which seeks an across-the-board ?100 increase in the daily minimum wage of private-sector workers nationwide.

To address unemployment, Go filed Senate Bill No. 177, or the proposed Rural Employment Assistance Program Act, which seeks to provide temporary jobs to economically disadvantaged Filipinos, particularly in rural communities.

He also introduced Senate Bill No. 174, or the proposed Indigent Jobseekers Assistance Act, which seeks to reduce or waive government fees for certain pre-employment documents required of qualified indigent jobseekers.

In healthcare, Go, vice chairman of the Senate Committee on Health, continues to advocate affordable medical services through Malasakit Centers, Super Health Centers, and Regional Specialty Centers.

He principally authored and sponsored Republic Act No. 11463, or the Malasakit Centers Act, which established one-stop shops in government hospitals to help indigent and financially-incapacitated patients access medical and financial assistance.

He also championed Republic Act No. 11959, or the Regional Specialty Centers Act, which seeks to expand access to specialized medical services in government hospitals nationwide.

On government accountability, Go has called for transparency in investigations into alleged irregularities involving infrastructure and flood control projects, emphasizing that public funds must be protected and those responsible for wrongdoing held accountable.

During deliberations on the Department of Public Works and Highways’ 2026 budget, he supported reforms and the filing of cases against individuals involved in corruption, mismanagement, and failed infrastructure projects.

“Let us hold all those responsible for this mess accountable,” Go said.

He also cited the need to address criminality, illegal drugs, and poverty as part of broader efforts to protect Filipino families and improve their quality of life. — (FREEMAN)