Senator Christopher "Bong" Go pushed for the institutionalization of the Philippine National Games and underscored the critical role of sports in national development.

In his sponsorship speech for Senate Bill 2514 right before the Senate goes on break on Wednesday, the lawmaker reminded his colleagues of the constitutional basis for sports development in the Philippines.

"Article 14, Section 19 of the 1987 Constitution mandates the State to promote physical education and encourage sports programs," he stated, underscoring the government's responsibility to foster "self-discipline, teamwork, and excellence for the development of a healthy and alert citizenry."

Go, chairperson of the Committee on Sports, highlighted the interconnectivity of sports, health, and national well-being.

He asserted that "our efforts to promote sports and physical fitness are always anchored on our mission to make our citizens healthy and fit."

He also linked sports promotion to the broader national agenda, including the campaign against illegal drugs.

"Let us continue to encourage our youth to get into sports and stay away from illegal drugs."

Addressing the need for grassroots sports development, Go highlighted the critical role of local programs in identifying and nurturing athletic talent.

He stressed the importance of a "genuine comprehensive national grassroots sports program" as the country's premier sports competition and a vital platform for a nationwide talent search.

"Usually, the potential athletes are in the grassroots," he noted, pointing out the potential of such grassroots programs in bringing forth national and international sports champions.

In his sponsorship speech, Go also provided historical context to the discussion, referencing a pivotal moment in the nation's sports history.

"Former president Fidel Ramos issued Executive Order 163 in 1994, which declared the Philippine National Games as the centerpiece program of the government's national physical fitness and sports development effort," he recounted, adding that the EO sets the stage for the current discussion on enhancing PNG's role and impact.

Go lamented the "perennial lack of funding in grassroots sports development, including the conduct of Philippine National Games," describing it as a significant impediment to achieving the objectives set out in the EO.