Senator Christopher “Bong” Go’s tenure as chair of the Senate Committee on Sports has been defined by more than just legislative action—it is marked by his tangible support for grassroots sports development across the country.
From advocating for increased funding to responding to direct pleas for assistance, his approach ensures that the nation’s sports development remains inclusive and forward-thinking.
In recent years, organizations like the Capiz Gymnastics Club and MambaXP Organization, Inc., have directly benefited from Senator Go’s initiatives to expand their programs and activities.
The MambaXP Organization also reached out, requesting support to cover expenses for implementing various grassroots sports programs.
In partnership with the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), the Senator facilitated the provision of financial support, underscoring his commitment to fostering sports development at the community level.
Beyond financial support, Senator Go’s advocacy extends to institutional reform and structural development. He was pivotal in creating the National Academy of Sports (NAS) through Republic Act No. 11470. Located in New Clark City, Capas, Tarlac, NAS integrates sports-focused training with secondary education, providing young athletes a dual path to success. This institution stands as a testament to Senator Go’s vision for a system that nurtures athletic talent while ensuring academic growth.
In addition to his efforts with NAS, Senator Go is also pushing for the institutionalization of the Philippine National Games (PNG). It seeks to strengthen a structured national sports program that not only promotes grassroots sports but also provides opportunities for aspiring athletes to compete at the national level.
“Grassroots programs are the lifeblood of sports development,” Senator Go emphasized. “Dapat nating bigyan ng oportunidad ang kabataang Pilipino na maabot ang kanilang mga pangarap sa larangan ng palakasan. Gamitin natin ang sports bilang daan para sa mas magandang kinabukasan.”
Senator Go’s work also extends to rehabilitating critical sports facilities. Under his sponsorship of the sports budget in the Senate, he advocated for the improvement of the Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Manila and Philsports Arena in Pasig City. He firmly believes that providing athletes with the proper environment, equipment, and support systems—ranging from nutrition to mental health services—is essential for their success both on and off the field.
With a steadfast belief in sports as a driver of national pride and individual development, Senator Go’s initiatives continue to shape the landscape of Filipino athletics, ensuring that support reaches not just elite athletes but also the clubs and communities nurturing future champions.
As Chairperson of the Senate Youth Committee, 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.
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.
“Patuloy kaming magseserbisyo sa inyo dahil bisyo ko ang magserbisyo at ako ay naniniwala na ang serbisyo sa tao ay serbisyo ‘yan sa Panginoon, serbisyo ‘yan kay Allah,” underscored Senator Go, who is known as Mr. Malasakit for his compassionate service to Filipinos in need.
