WHEN Senator Christopher “Bong” Go speaks about sports, he’s not just discussing athletics. His aim is charting a path for a healthier, more dynamic Filipino youth. As Chairperson of the Senate Committees on Sports and on Youth, Go has made it his mission to leverage sports as a transformative force, championing policies and programs that place young Filipinos at the forefront of the country’s development.
Senator Go’s support for youth sports goes beyond rhetoric. In recent years, he has advocated for substantial support for sports festivals and grassroots leagues across the Philippines.
From Barangay Tunasan, Muntinlupa’s SK Sports Festival to Famy, Laguna’s sports programs, Go’s efforts have empowered young leaders like Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Chairperson Ryan Marmeto, who organized local sports festivals to unite and inspire their communities.
“Ang sports ay hindi lang para sa physical health, kundi para sa mental health at disiplina at pagkakaisa ng mga kabataan,” said Go.
His commitment resonates in initiatives like Barangay Sto. Cristo’s basketball and volleyball leagues in Pampanga, organized by SK Chairwoman Ana Donarber, where youth engagement has grown significantly thanks to sports’ inclusive appeal.
This mission to nurture talent at the grassroots level has been the backbone of Go’s advocacy. In partnership with the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), Senator Go has backed efforts to strengthen the country’s sports programs by providing resources and opportunities for young athletes to develop their potential.
“As I always remind our youth, get into sports, stay away from illegal drugs to keep us healthy and fit,” Go frequently emphasizes.
Senator Go’s legislative contributions have fortified this vision. As a key figure in the passage of Republic Act No. 11470, which established the National Academy of Sports (NAS) in New Clark City, Capas, Tarlac, Go secured a platform where young athletes could simultaneously excel in sports and academics. The NAS’s specialized curriculum supports student-athletes in pursuing both education and competitive sports, laying the groundwork for future Olympians and world-class competitors.
Recognizing the crucial role of facilities in sports development, Senator Go has sponsored significant upgrades to key infrastructure. The Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Manila and the Philsports Arena in Pasig City stand as testaments to his belief that world-class training environments are essential for athletes’ growth. Alongside infrastructure, Go continues to push for increased budget allocations for sports programs, ensuring that Filipino athletes are equipped with proper training, nutrition, and mental support to compete globally.
With an eye on the future, Senator Go remains steadfast in his vision. “Ang pag-asa ng bayan ang kabataan,” he said, underscoring his belief that investment in youth welfare is an investment in the Philippines’ future.
Through sports, Senator Go has turned this belief into action, inspiring young Filipinos to dream big, play hard, and lead with purpose.
