Go backs disaster resilience, sports development

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go recently underscored his dedication to both disaster resilience and sports development in the country.

On Friday, the senator lauded the signing of Republic Act No. 12076, the Ligtas Pinoy Centers Act, which mandates the establishment of permanent evacuation centers across the country.

Go, who co-authored and co-sponsored the law, highlighted the crucial need for safe, well-equipped shelters for evacuees during natural disasters.

He attended the signing ceremony at the Malacañang Palace. On the same day, Republic Act No. 12077, or the “Student Loan Payment Moratorium During Disasters and Emergencies Act,” which Go co-sponsored and co-authored, was also signed into law.

Speaking about his years-long advocacy, Go emphasized the urgent need for dedicated facilities to provide refuge for disaster-affected communities, ensuring that evacuees will no longer have to endure inadequate, temporary shelters.

Meanwhile on 5 December, Go received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 4th Siklab Youth Sports Awards, recognizing his significant contributions to sports and youth development.

Among the awardees, Senator Go stood out as the sole recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award for his unwavering dedication to advancing Philippine sports and empowering young Filipino athletes. The previous year, during the 3rd Siklab Youth Sports Awards, Go received the Godfather of the Year award.

In his acceptance speech, he acknowledged the achievements of Filipino athletes, particularly Olympic medalists like Hidilyn Diaz and Carlos Yulo, and reiterated the importance of supporting Filipino athletes. “Ako po, with or without award, magseserbisyo ako sa aking kapwa Pilipino at mga atleta,” he said.

Go’s advocacy continues through initiatives such as the National Academy of Sports and his efforts to secure increased funding for sports development, all aimed at creating more opportunities for Filipino athletes. His work reflects a commitment to the well-being and success of the nation’s youth and sports community.