TRANSPORT MODE. Select residents of Siquijor receive bicycles from Senator Bong Go during a series of aid-distribution activities. In his video message, Go encouraged residents to get vaccinated against Covid-19 to help the country defeat the pandemic. (Photo courtesy of SBG)

Economic front-liners in the island province of Siquijor can become the government’s active partners to bounce back from the Covid-19 pandemic by getting vaccinated.

In a video message aired during aid-distribution activities in various towns, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go encouraged essential workers already covered by the vaccination program to avail of jabs.

As chair of the Committee on Health and Demography, Go reiterated that vaccines can hasten the return to normalcy.

“The vaccine is the key or solution for our gradual return to normal life so that we can have a happy Christmas this year. President (Rodrigo) Duterte and I just ask you, trust the vaccine, don’t be afraid of the vaccine,” Go said.

From Aug. 16 to 18, about 6,000 residents from the towns of Siquijor, Larena, Maria, Lazi, Enrique Villanueva, and San Juan received assistance from Go.

The beneficiaries, who were grouped in batches because of health protocols, received meals, masks, face shields, and vitamins.

New pairs of shoes and bicycles were likewise given to select residents while others brought home computer tablets for their children’s online education.

Go thanked the Department of Social Welfare and Development for also providing financial assistance while the Department of Trade and Industry and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority conducted assessment for livelihood support and scholarship grants, respectively.

As part of his commitment to bring convenient access to quality health care services, Go reminded the locals to visit the Malasakit Center at Siquijor Provincial Hospital.

Go had previously extended support to various projects in Siquijor, such as the construction of Siquijor Airport, acquisition of two ambulance units, construction of multipurpose buildings in San Juan, and road improvement projects.