ILAGAN CITY, ISABELA — Senator Christopher “Bong” Go emphasized the need to prioritize Filipino family values and religious beliefs in discussions about Senate Bill No. 1979, also known as the Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) bill.

In a media interview on 23 January, Senator Go clarified his position on the controversial proposal, citing cultural and religious sensitivities as key concerns. He called for further consultations and revisions to address misconceptions surrounding the measure.

“Some provisions, particularly those based on international standards, may not align with Filipino culture,” Go said in Filipino. “This requires thorough hearings involving all stakeholders to ensure a fair and inclusive discussion.”

Go, who chairs the Senate Committee on Health, clarified that his name was included in the committee report on the bill as a procedural matter but stressed that he does not support the measure.

“This week, we wrote a letter to the Senate President to withdraw my signature from the committee report,” he announced.

The senator also underscored the importance of family as the primary source of education on sensitive topics like sexuality, particularly at a young age. “Teaching about sexuality should start in the home, not dictated by schools, especially at an early age when children may not be ready,” he said.

He noted that the deeply religious nature of Filipino society plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion on the bill. “Filipinos are known to be religious. My mother, for instance, is very devout. She would travel hours just to pray,” Go shared.

Critics of the CSE bill have raised concerns over its potential conflict with traditional Filipino values and religious teachings. Opponents argue that provisions promoting contraceptive use and discussions of sexual diversity may undermine the role of parents and families in shaping children’s understanding of such issues.

While proponents claim the measure aims to combat adolescent pregnancy and improve youth health, Go reiterated that any policy must respect the country’s cultural and moral framework.

“As lawmakers, we must ensure that policies reflect the values and beliefs of our people. We need to address pressing issues like adolescent pregnancy in a manner consistent with our Constitution and cultural principles,” he said.

Go expressed willingness to participate in future deliberations should a revised or substitute bill be filed. He called for balanced discussions to ensure that all perspectives are considered fairly.

“Every decision in the Senate should involve an open dialogue where both sides are heard. We must be fair to everyone,” he concluded.