Bacolod City, 12 December — Senator Christopher “Bong” Go underscored his commitment to public service during the Negros Occidental Chapter Philippine Councilors League (PCL) Year-End Assembly held at Roy’s Hotel. The event brought together more than 370 councilors, highlighting the crucial role of local leaders in community development.

“Mga kapwa ko lingkod bayan... kayo ang direktang hinaharap ng ating mga kababayan, kayo ang unang takbuhan nila, at madalas, kayo rin ang nagbibigay ng solusyon sa kanilang mga problema," Go said in a video message. "Kaya nga po saludo ako sa inyong sakripisyo at dedikasyon."

(My fellow public servants, you directly face our countrymen, you are the first people they run to for help, and, often, you solve their problems. That's why I salute your sacrifices and dedication.)

He expressed gratitude for the support he has received and emphasized the shared responsibilities of national and local leaders in addressing the needs of the public.

“Kayo ay nasa isang mahalagang posisyon upang magdulot ng positibong pagbabago sa inyong mga komunidad,” he added.

(You are in an important position to effect positive change on your communities.)

Legislative support and local projects

Senator Go highlighted his legislative efforts to support public servants, including Republic Act No. 11466, the Salary Standardization Law 5, which he co-authored, and his proposed Senate Bill No. 2504 for SSL 6 to ensure equitable compensation.

As Vice Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, Go has also supported infrastructure projects in Negros Occidental, such as road maintenance, floodwall construction, water systems, and multipurpose buildings. These initiatives aim to enhance local development and address community needs.

Go concluded by urging councilors to continue their dedication to public service. “Kung ano pong kabutihan o tulong na pwede nating gawin sa ating kapwa ay gawin na natin ngayon dahil hindi na tayo babalik sa mundong ito.”

(Whatever good we can do or service we can give our fellows, let's do it now, because we won't get another chance on this Earth.)