SENATOR Christopher “Bong” Go extended his heartfelt congratulations to Former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte for being this year’s sole recipient of the Datu Bago Award, emphasizing the former president’s profound impact on public service particularly in the development of Mindanao.
The Datu Bago Awards represent the highest accolade by the Davao City government for individuals who have significantly advanced the city’s development.
During an interview on Friday, March 8, after aiding typhoon victims in Malita, Davao Occidental, Go expressed deep admiration for Duterte’s extensive service to Davao City, spanning over 36 years.
“Congratulations po kay former president Rodrigo Duterte for being the lone Datu Bago 2024 awardee. Alam n’yo, 36 years na pong nanilbihan si Tatay Digong sa Davao City at noon pa bilang OIC (Office in Charge) vice mayor, naging elected mayor, naging congressman, naging three-term mayor again, naging vice mayor, naging mayor… hanggang sa naging pangulo ng bansa,” he recounted.
He underscored Duterte’s unparalleled dedication, stating,
“Thirty six years ng kanyang buhay, almost half of his life, na devote niya po sa pagseserbisyo sa Davao City. It’s long overdue, matagal na po ito. At siya po talaga ang pinaka deserving na Davaoeño na makakuha ng award na ito.”
Go heralded Duterte as an unparalleled figure in his life, “He is my greatest mentor in life, in public service.”
He also highlighted Duterte’s unyielding devotion to the welfare of Davaoeños, irrespective of formal recognition.
“With or without recognition, with or without award, alam ko, mahal n’ya po ang ating mga kababayan. Mahal n’ya po ang Davaoeño. Magse-serbisyo po ‘yan kahit na walang award,” he added.
Councilor Pilar Braga, announcing Duterte’s recognition, underscored his transformative role in Davao City, highlighting his tenure as a catalyst for progress, inclusive governance, and community empowerment.
Duterte’s legacy, marked by efforts to make Davao City one of the safest and most livable cities in the Philippines, aligns with the award’s values of fostering unity, resilience, and progress among its people.
The awards night is scheduled for March 13, 2024, at Matina Enclaves, Davao City, with high anticipation for Duterte’s attendance. This year, the decision to exclusively honor Duterte signifies a pause in the usual nomination process, with plans to consider the current applicants in the next cycle.
