BONG GO EMPHASIZES CONTINUED SUPPORT FOR FILIPINO ATHLETES AND GRASSROOTS SPORTS DEVELOPMENT

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, Chairperson of the Senate Committees on Sports and on Youth, reaffirmed his advocacy for strengthening grassroots sports programs and supporting Filipino athletes through government funding and initiatives. His efforts have been pivotal in securing financial support for athletes and promoting community-based sports activities, which continue to benefit Filipinos nationwide.

Highlighting the 2025 budget allocation for the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), Senator Go underscored the importance of investing in athletes’ development, not just for competition but for nation-building.

“Kailangan nating suportahan ang ating mga atleta at kabataang mahilig sa sports, hindi lang para sa karangalan ng bansa kundi para na rin sa kalusugan at pagkakaisa ng ating mga komunidad,” Senator Go said.

Through his consistent efforts, the PSC has allocated funds to promote community sports tournaments and activities, ensuring that aspiring athletes from various sectors have access to opportunities and resources. These initiatives aim to create an environment where sports serve as a tool for health, discipline, and camaraderie.

Senator Go expressed his belief in the transformative power of sports. “Sa pamamagitan ng sports, nabibigyan natin ng pag-asa ang mga kabataan na tuparin ang kanilang mga pangarap, habang natututo silang maging responsable at maayos na mamamayan,” he added.

Beyond budgetary measures, Senator Go was instrumental in creating the National Academy of Sports (NAS), established through Republic Act No. 11470, which he co-authored and sponsored. Located in New Clark City, Capas, Tarlac, the NAS offers a unique blend of secondary education and a sports-focused curriculum, providing student-athletes with the foundation they need to excel in academics and sports.

Senator Go has been a key advocate for the repair and improvement of major sports facilities, such as the Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Manila and the Philsports Arena in Pasig City. He believes that world-class infrastructure, combined with comprehensive athlete support, can elevate Filipino athletes’ performances on the global stage.

“Kung gusto natin ng world-class athletes, dapat world-class din ang training facilities, equipment, at suporta sa kanilang pisikal at mental na kalusugan,” Senator Go stated.

Since 2019, Go has also continuously pushed for an increased budget for sports programs to significantly improve Filipino athletes’ preparation, training, and competitive performance on the international stage while launching effective programs to cultivate the talents of young and aspiring sports enthusiasts at the grassroots level.

Also, Go continues to urge government to prioritize sports engagement among citizens, not only for elite athletes but also for aspiring youth athletes, especially at the grassroots.

“As I always remind our youth, get into sports, stay away from illegal drugs to keep us healthy and fit!” he said earlier.

As part of his health reforms crusade and commitment to sports development, Senator Go emphasized the need to cultivate young talent through community sports initiatives. He sees sports as a means to keep youth engaged and away from harmful activities.

“Kapag may pagkakataon ang kabataan na maglaro at magpakahusay sa sports, mas nalalayo sila sa bisyo at mga maling landas,” he said.

Senator Go’s unwavering commitment to sports development and athlete support remains evident in his legislative and grassroots initiatives. By securing funding and advocating for meaningful programs, he continues to champion Filipino athletes and inspire the youth to pursue their passions and dreams.

“Sa sports, may pag-asa, may pagkakaisa, at may tagumpay. Ang suporta natin sa ating mga atleta ay suporta rin sa ating bayan,” underscored Go who is known as Mr. Malasakit for his compassionate service to Filipinos in need.