SENATOR Christopher “Bong” Go, known for his advocacy for education and sports development, attended the 73rd Commencement Exercises of Bohol Institute of Technology (BIT) International College held in Tagbilaran City, Bohol on Monday, July 18.
Addressing the students, faculty, and staff members, Senator Go emphasized the importance of education as a key to unlocking a brighter future. He highlighted how education empowers individuals, equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills to overcome challenges and achieve their goals in the future.
The senator likewise stressed that education is not only about gaining academic knowledge but also about cultivating values and character that will guide the students throughout their lives.
“I would also like to express my gratitude to the faculty and staff of BIT International College for their unwavering commitment to providing quality education to our youth. Your dedication and passion for teaching have helped all these young minds and equip them with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in the ever-changing world we live in,” said Go.
“The theme for today’s ceremony ‘Higher Education: Towards Greater Access, Mobility, And Impactful Transformation,’ resonates deeply with us. Education is indeed a powerful tool that can open doors and create opportunities for individuals, families, and even entire communities,” he cited.
Go inspired the students by sharing stories of his own humble beginnings and how education played a pivotal role in every Filipino’s journey toward success. He urged students to dream big and work diligently to turn their aspirations into reality. Emphasizing that every individual has the potential to excel, the senator reminded the students that they possess the power to achieve greatness and make a positive impact on society.
“Education should not be limited to the acquisition of knowledge alone, but should also instill values such as compassion, integrity, and social responsibility. We must continue to nurture individuals who will contribute positively to our society and be agents of change in their respective fields. As you graduate today, I encourage you to use your knowledge and skills to make a difference, not only in your own lives but also in the lives of others,” Go urged.
“The journey that you are about to embark on is filled with endless possibilities and opportunities. I have faith in each and every one of you, and I believe that you have the power to shape a better future for yourselves and for our nation. Embrace the challenges that come your way, never stop learning, and always remember the values and lessons you have gained from your time here at BIT International College,” he added.
Meanwhile, as Chair of the Senate Committee on Sports, Go encouraged the students to actively engage in productive activities. The senator firmly believes that by participating in sports, the youth can divert their energies away from harmful vices and instead channel their passion and energy towards building a healthier, more productive future.
He appealed to the youth to resist the temptations of illegal activities and focus on sports as a means to develop their skills and nurture their potential. The senator emphasized that by engaging in sports, the youth can build strong character and develop valuable life skills, ultimately leading to a brighter future for themselves and their communities.
The senator then highlighted one of his priority measures successfully passed — Republic Act No. 11470, establishing the National Academy of Sports (NAS) in 2020.
NAS, located in New Clark City, Capas, Tarlac, is a government-run academy aimed at developing the country’s future athletes by offering quality secondary education with a special curriculum on sports for gifted young Filipinos who want to enhance their physical and mental capabilities in sports. It officially started its first academic year on September 13, 2021.
According to Go, this landmark legislation recognizes the importance of sports and physical education in the holistic development of the youth. The National Academy of Sports provides an avenue for talented and deserving student-athletes to receive world-class training and education, enabling them to excel in both their chosen sports and academic pursuits.
“Ito pong eskwelahang ito makakatulong talaga sa mga atleta. And rest assured, ako po na inyong chairman sa Committee on Sports, magpu-push pa ako ng programa na makakatulong sa mga kabataan at ilayo po ang mga kabataan sa iligal na droga. Dahil ayaw kong bumalik ang iligal na droga, ayaw ko pong masayang ang inumpisahan ni (dating) pangulong (Rodrigo) Duterte na labanan po ang iligal na droga at kriminalidad,” he shared.