Senate adopts Go’s resolution for 'Balik Probinsya' program

The Senate adopted a resolution on Monday urging the executive department to implement a 'Balik Probinsya' program aimed at decongesting Metro Manila and promoting regional development.

Senator Bong Go, who sponsored the resolution, highlighted that the program would address issues such as poverty, economic inequality, traffic congestion, and environmental problems in urban areas.

Go emphasized that overcrowding in Metro Manila exacerbates the spread of diseases like COVID-19 and proposed the 'Balik Probinsya' initiative as a long-term solution to prevent future pandemics.

The resolution also aims to encourage informal settlers and those living in danger zones to relocate to their home provinces, with 68% of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the Philippines recorded in Metro Manila as of May 1.