MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Bong Go has urged Filipinos to utilize the services of Malasakit Centers, saying they provide convenient and safe access to various medical assistance programs of the government.

In a radio interview on Thursday, Go said the one-stop shops limit the need to go from one government office to another and line up, effectively reducing foot traffic and even COVID-19 transmission.

“Batas na po ang Malasakit Center. Nasa loob na ng ospital ang apat na ahensya ng gobyerno – ang DOH (Department of Health), PCSO (Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office), PhilHealth at DSWD (Department of Social Welfare and Development),” he said.

Go said patients or their representatives need only to fill out a unified form to request assistance, instead of having to visit government offices in various locations.

He said strict health protocols are being implemented in the centers.

Go said there are 94 Malasakit Centers nationwide.

The Malasakit Center at Ilocos Training and Regional Medical Center in San Fernando City, La Union was inaugurated on Dec. 4. It is the first in La Union and the third in Ilocos region.