Sen. Bong Go underscores need for vigilance, long-term preparedness as mpox cases emerge in Mindanao

Go warned that while the situation is under control, these developments highlight the urgent need for proactive measures and resilient healthcare systems. “Para sa akin, hindi pwedeng saluhin lang natin ang problema kapag andiyan na. Kailangan handa tayo, may mga institusyong kayang mag-monitor at rumesponde agad sa banta sa kalusugan ng bawat Pilipino,” he stressed.

Health authorities from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) recently confirmed two cases of mpox in the towns of Datu Odin Sinsuat and Sultan Kudarat in Maguindanao del Norte. Six others showing symptoms have been isolated and are under close medical monitoring.

In South Cotabato, the Integrated Provincial Health Office was reported confirming a total of ten mpox cases across the province—one each in Banga, Koronadal City, Tantangan, and Lake Sebu; four in Tboli; and two in Surallah. All individuals are under isolation and close medical supervision, while their identified close contacts are being monitored to prevent further transmission.

These are in addition to earlier confirmed mpox cases across Metro Manila, Calabarzon, Central Luzon, Baguio City, Davao City, and North Cotabato’s Tulunan town.

Go reminded the public to stay calm but alert. “Importante pong alerto tayo pero huwag magpadala sa takot. Makinig tayo sa mga health expert at sundin ang payo ng mga awtoridad,” he advised.

In order to further strengthen the country’s healthcare system in addressing future threats to the health of Filipinos, Go intends to pursue further more health reforms. 

“For my second term, with all sincerity, I will continue to push for pro-poor programs and laws, especially on health. Health is wealth. We must work together to bring quality medical services closer to our people, particularly the poor and indigent patients. Ang kalusugan ay katumbas ng buhay ng bawat Pilipino,” he declared during his proclamation as a re-elected senator on May 17.

Among his priority measures is Senate Bill No. 195, which seeks to establish the Center for Disease Control (CDC)—a central agency for disease surveillance, response, and prevention. The CDC is envisioned to strengthen the country’s capacity to respond to both local and global health threats.

Go also served as principal author and co-sponsor of Senate Bill No. 2893 or the Virology Institute of the Philippines (VIP) Act, which was approved by the Senate on final reading in February. The proposed VIP will serve as the country’s lead research institution focused on virology, vaccine development, and emerging infectious diseases if enacted into law. 

“Hindi natin kailangang umasa palagi sa ibang bansa para sa bakuna. Dapat may kapasidad tayo dito sa Pilipinas. ’Yan ang layunin ng Virology Institute—para mas maging handa tayo at mas mabawasan ang pangamba ng mga kababayan natin tuwing may outbreak,” Go pointed out.

He emphasized that these initiatives are part of a broader mission to ensure that the country’s healthcare system becomes more responsive, inclusive, and future-ready. “Kung gusto nating protektahan ang kinabukasan ng bansa, kailangan simulan natin sa pangangalaga ng kalusugan ng mga Pilipino,” he reminded.