SENATOR Christopher “Bong” Go has successfully pushed for considerable amendments to the national budget to bolster various developmental programs nationwide particularly to benefit the youth, cooperatives, and Mindanao.
As vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, his recent efforts have led to substantial financial allocations to three key agencies: the Mindanao Development Authority, the Cooperative Development Authority, and the National Youth Commission.
According to Go, these amendments reflect his commitment to addressing the diverse needs of these sectors that are crucial to economic recovery and progress.
Through Go’s initiative, the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) was granted a PhP10 million allocation intended to Strengthening Indigenous People in Mindanao (STIP-Mindanao) Program.
This program is designed to empower the indigenous communities in Mindanao, providing them with the necessary resources and support to preserve their culture and improve their living standards. The STIP-Mindanao Program is expected to be pivotal in fostering social inclusivity and cultural preservation.
“Mindanao holds a special place in our hearts, and we must continue to support initiatives that promote the welfare and empowerment of our Indigenous Peoples in the region,” Go, ex-officio member of the MinDA Board of Directors, encouraged.
“The STIP-Mindanao Program is a vital step in this direction, and I firmly believe that increasing its budget allocation will significantly enhance the lives and opportunities of our Indigenous communities,” he continued.
Meanwhile, Senator Go pushed for an additional PhP20 million for the Cooperative Development Authority to strengthen government support for the cooperative sector.
This budget is allocated for the Human Capital Development Program for Cooperatives, which aims to provide financial assistance and capacity-building initiatives for qualified cooperatives throughout the Philippines.
Go explained, “This program is seen as a critical step in enhancing the skills and competencies of cooperative members, thereby contributing to the country’s overall economic development.”
It can be recalled that Go co-authored Senate Bill No. 1855, which became Republic Act No. 11535, signed into law by former president Duterte in 2021. This legislation requires the assignment of cooperative development officers in all municipalities, cities, and provinces. Their role is to enhance the capabilities of cooperatives and foster their sustainable growth. The purpose of these appointments is to empower cooperatives, enabling them to play a pivotal role in the progress and development of their local communities.
Lastly, Go supported a PhP5 million budget amendment for the National Youth Commission dedicated to the Philippine Youth Development Plan Advocacy Project, a program designed to engage and empower young Filipinos into community leaders.
Through this project, the National Youth Commission seeks to advocate for youth development, providing avenues for them to participate actively in nation-building and community development.
“By channeling resources to indigenous communities, cooperative development, and youth empowerment, these initiatives represent a multifaceted approach to addressing the needs of various sectors in Philippine society,” cited Go.
“The funding is expected to bring about significant improvements in the lives of many Filipinos, particularly those in underserved and marginalized communities,” he added.
As part of his advocacy to further empower the youth, Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports, highlighted the National Academy of Sports (NAS), a fully operational institution located within the New Clark City in Tarlac.
Go authored and co-sponsored the measure that became RA 11470, establishing the NAS in 2020. NAS is a government-run educational institution that offers quality secondary education with a special curriculum on sports for gifted young Filipinos who want to enhance their physical and mental capabilities in sports.
The lawmaker remains to advocate for the passage of his filed SBN 423, known as the proposed Philippine National Games Act which he sponsored in the Senate plenary as chairperson of the Committee on Sports in December 2023. This bill aims to create a comprehensive framework for a national sports program that effectively connects grassroots sports promotion with the enhancement of national sports development.
