Senator Christopher "Bong" Go, chairperson of the Committee on Sports, emphasized during the inauguration of the Puncan Gymnasium on Tuesday, 19 December, the crucial role of sports in steering Filipino youth away from illegal drugs and criminal activities.

Go, as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, commended the local government and Congressman Jose Gay Padiernos of GP Partylist for initiating the project. He expressed support for their efforts of improving local infrastructure and promoting a vibrant culture grounded in sportsmanship and a healthy well-being for their constituents.

"As your chairman of the Committee on Sports, gusto ko pong ilayo ang mga kabataan sa iligal na droga. Get into sports, stay away from drugs to keep healthy and fit," he urged.

The inauguration of the Puncan Gymnasium, a facility dedicated to fostering a healthy and active lifestyle, stands as a testament to this vision. Go underscored the gymnasium's role not just as a physical space but as a community hub for nurturing talent, discipline, and camaraderie among the youth.

In support of this cause, Go also expressed his intent to support local sports leagues and clinics as platforms for young athletes to showcase their skills and embrace the discipline of sports.

The senator's call to action, "Get into sports, stay away from drugs," resonated strongly with the audience, comprising local leaders, youth, and community members. Go said that this not only encapsulates his policy approach towards youth development but also aligns with the broader national agenda of combating drug abuse and criminality championed by former president Rodrigo Duterte.

Go, adopted son of Nueva Ecija, then acknowledged key local leaders for their contributions to the community. He thanked Congressman Jose Gay Padiernos of GP Partylist and Congressman Joseph Violago for their service in Nueva Ecija, along with Governor Aurelio "Oyie" Umali and Vice Governor Emmanuel Umali for their leadership. Acknowledgments were also extended to Mayor Ogie Abad, Vice Mayor Ricardo Manucdoc, and former mayor Mary Abad for their roles in local development, among others.

During the event, Go also distributed snacks and gift packs to barangay health workers and indigent residents present during the ceremony.