Senator Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go congratulated EJ Obiena for his impressive run in various international competitions.
Go, the chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports, said Obiena showed that Filipinos have what it takes to win in world-class events after defeating world record holder Armand Duplantis in the Brussels Diamond League in Belgium.
Prior to that, he ruled in the Internationales Stabhochsprung-Meeting, True Athletes Classics, and St. Wendel City Jump in Germany, making him as the world's hottest vaulter in the ongoing outdoor season.
Most recently, he secured the silver medal in the Internationales Stadionfest Berlin in Germany.
"I would like to congratulate EJ Obiena on his recent sporting triumphs and for bringing glory to the country," Go, an avid sports enthusiast who also tipped his hats off to Obiena for his record-breaking conquest in the 31st Southeast Asian Games in May, said.
"The entire country salutes you for your victory."
Obiena, the world No. 2 pole vaulter, responded in a video message, expressing his gratitude to the senator for supporting Filipino athletes.
"Senator Bong Go, thank you so much for your support to the athletes," Obiena said.
"Thank you very much. This is for the Philippines. It wouldn't be possible without you."
Go said it is his duty as a senator, a sports advocate and a Filipino to support that national athletes in any way he can.
"Do not thank us because we're just doing our jobs. We are very thankful because they gave us a chance to help turn the country into one of the sports powerhouses in Asia," he said.
"Thanks to all of our athletes for working hard in giving glory to our country. Your victory gives us hope and inspiration to our countrymen as they face the challenges of the pandemic."
In the past, Go helped resolve the conflict between Obiena and the Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association by urging the Philippine Sports Commission to expedite the mediation proceedings.
The senator stressed the importance of Filipino solidarity and unwavering support, especially in sports where the honor and glory of the nation are at stake.
