Senator Christopher "Bong" Go graced the inauguration of a sports clinic in Quezon Province on Tuesday and reprised the role of sports in the lives of the people.

"As your Chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports and vice chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, it is an honor for me to see that our advocacy is bearing fruit," Go said in a speech at the Alcala Sports Complex in Lucena City.

In attendance were city mayor Mark Alcala, vice-governor Anacleto "Third" Alcala III and provincial sports coordinator Aries Mercene.

The Provincial Sports Clinic was put up by the provincial government led by Governor Helen Tan, whose project also had the full backing of the Philippine Sports Commission.

Student-athletes from Quezon National High School took part in the clinic that covered the sports of basketball, swimming and football.
Go also took the opportunity to remind the youth to engage in sports and stay away from illegal drugs.

"Get into sports, stay away from drugs to keep healthy and fit."

His team also provided various forms of assistance to aspiring athletes and participants during his visit. The senator also told local leaders that he is willing to support other similar initiatives to promote sports in the grassroots.

"Sports is not just a pastime; it is an important aspect of discipline, camaraderie and healthy living. This is also my advocacy… a way to fight off drugs."

Go, an adopted son of CALABARZON, expressed his confidence that the sports clinic will serve as a vital platform for discovering and honing the talents of young sports enthusiasts in the community. In his remarks, Go also highlighted his legislative achievements aimed at bolstering the country's sports sector.

Go authored and co-sponsored Republic Act 11470 which established the National Academy of Sports at New Clark City, Capas, Tarlac.

The NAS, a government-run educational institution, offers a secondary education program integrated with a special sports curriculum crafted in collaboration with the Department of Education and the PSC.

Alcala expressed his heartfelt thanks to Go for finding the time to attend the event.

"We are fortunate that we were visited by somebody who is always supportive of our province. The athletes of Quezon (province) love you."