BONG GO HONORS PARENTS, TEACHERS OF UNIVERSITY OF CAGAYAN VALLEY STUDENTS, EMPHASIZING IMPORTANCE OF HELPING YOUTH ACHIEVE THEIR DREAMS

SENATOR Christopher “Bong” Go personally visited the University of Cagayan Valley in Tuguegarao City, Cagayan, on Monday, June 3, attending the Tribute to Parents gathering in anticipation of their graduation. In his speech, the senator highlighted parents and guardians’ crucial role in their children’s academic success, personal development, and achieving their goals and dreams.

“As a father myself, I understand and empathize with the emotions and sacrifices of parents. They are the primary role models for their children, paving the way for a better future through their unwavering support and dedication to their children’s education,” Senator Go expressed.

“Bilang Senador at trabahador ng ating gobyerno, binabati ko rin po kayo at pinasasalamatan sa taos-puso at walang sawang suporta at pagmamahal na ibinibigay sa inyong mga anak — sila po ang kinabukasan ng bayan, sila po ang papalit sa atin dito sa mundo,” he cited.

He underscored the significant impact of parental involvement on students’ achievements, emphasizing that parents are the ones who make countless sacrifices to ensure their children receive quality education. “Willing tayong magpakamatay para lang mabigyan ng magandang bukas ang ating mga anak. Parents work tirelessly, often putting their needs aside, to provide their children with the best opportunities for a good life,” he said.

“Tayong mga magulang, trabaho lang nang trabaho, sige lang nang sige. In the words of our youth today, ‘Go lang nang go!,” the senator continued.

Go also took the opportunity to extend his gratitude to the University of Cagayan Valley faculty members. “Teachers serve as second parents to our children, imparting academic knowledge and instilling essential values. Their contribution to our children’s growth is invaluable,” he remarked.

“Pasalamatan din po natin si Dr. Esther Susan “Cha” Perez-Mari, ang ating masipag na presidente, sa kanyang mahusay na pamumuno at dedikasyon sa pagpapaunlad ng edukasyon dito. Dr. Cha, salamat sa iyong inspirasyon at sa pagbibigay ng mataas na kalidad ng edukasyon sa ating mga estudyante,” Go expressed.

Addressing the students, Senator Go advised them always to study diligently to honor their parents’ sacrifices. “Make sure your parents’ hard work and sacrifices are not wasted. Show them your appreciation not just today but every day,” he urged.

“Mga kabataan, mayroon akong sasabihin sa inyo. Tandaan n’yo ito, malay n’yo maging senador kayo o maging public servant kayo pagtanda ninyo. Unahin n’yo po parati ‘yung pagmamahal sa bayan. At huwag nating kalimutang pasalamatan ang ating mga magulang na nagpapakamatay magtrabaho mapaaral lang po ang kanilang mga anak. Bigyan po natin ng pagpupugay ang ating mga magulang. Mahalin po natin ang ating mga magulang,” encouraged Go.

The event was also attended by Governor Manuel Mamba, Tuguegarao City Mayor Maila Rosario Ting-Que, among others. The senator also provided tokens to 2,300 students and 541 faculty members. He also rewarded the top notcher with a personal gift.

In his commitment to education, Senator Go assured that he would continue to advocate for more programs to enhance children’s academic futures. “As your senator, I will keep pushing for initiatives that support and improve the educational landscape for our youth,” he concluded.

To achieve this, he has co-authored and co-sponsored additional bills, showcasing his dedication to improving the country’s education system. These include Senate Bill Nos. 1360 and 1864.

SBN 1360 seeks to expand the coverage of the tertiary education subsidy by amending Republic Act No. 10931, the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act. This proposed measure aims to support students who struggle to pay their tuition and other school fees, including those not currently covered by existing subsidies under the law.

Meanwhile, SBN 1864, or the Student Loan Payment Moratorium During Disasters and Emergencies Act, aims to offer relief to students who have taken out loans but cannot repay them due to disasters and other emergencies.

He also co-authored and co-sponsored RA 11984, also known as the No Permit, No Exam Prohibition Act, which aims to protect students from the “no permit, no exam” policy in educational institutions, which prevents them from taking exams and other assessments due to outstanding financial or property obligations, such as unpaid tuition fees.

“Bukod dito, sinuportahan rin nating maipasa ang Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act na kamakailan lamang ay naging ganap na batas na. Ito ay naglalayon na mapalaki ang taunang teaching supplies allowance na ipinagkakaloob sa ating mga mahal na guro,” he added.

Currently, through the initiative of Go, the University of Cagayan Valley boasts 17 existing scholars, with an additional 200 scholarships through the Commission on Higher Education (CHED)-Tulong Dunong Program (TDP) facilitated by the Provincial Government Unit.

“I have always believed that access to quality education is one of the most powerful catalysts of change. It breaks down barriers and levels the playing field. That is why I fight hard to make our education system accessible, affordable, and fair for everyone,” Go underscored.

According to Go, the Tribute to Parents event was a touching reminder of the vital role parents and educators play in shaping the future of the next generation. Senator Go’s presence and words resonated deeply with all attendees.

“Go lang nang Go! Mabait po ang Diyos, hinding hindi tayo pababayaan. Kaya obligasyon po natin bilang mga anak Niya na isulong ang ating galing at talento dahil ipinagkaloob Niya ito sa atin, huwag natin sayangin,” Go encouraged.

“Ako naman po ay patuloy akong magseserbisyo sa inyo sa abot ng aking makakaya dahil bisyo ko yan, ang magserbisyo. Minsan lang tayo daraan sa mundong ito at hindi na tayo babalik pa, gamitin natin ang oras para magmahalan at tulungan ang isa’t isa. Maraming salamat at mabuhay tayong lahat!” he ended.

On the same day, Go also partnered with the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) to support cooperatives from region 2. He also provided assistance to displaced workers and Sangguniang Kabataan and youth leaders. All events took place in Tuguegarao City.