Bong Go defends Duterte's legacy amid ICC case

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go emphasized on Saturday the positive influence of former President Rodrigo Duterte’s anti-drug campaign, stressing that it reshaped public safety across the country. While legal proceedings related to Duterte’s recent arrest play out, Go expressed concern over the former president’s health, saying he remains committed to his mentor’s well-being.

Go highlighted Duterte’s achievements in combatting illegal narcotics, citing data that indicates over 55% of barangays nationwide were declared drug-free during his administration, which resulted from the seizure of P76 billion worth of illicit drugs.

“The Filipino people themselves are the ones judging whether they can safely walk at night,” Go said in FIlipino, referencing the public’s assessment of how safe the streets have become.

The senator attributed a substantial decline in crime — by more than 70% during Duterte’s first five years in office — to the administration’s strong campaign against narcotics.

He pointed to countless Filipinos who, in his words, “speak openly about feeling safer going out on the streets, even late at night.”

Go recounted personal interactions with ordinary citizens who expressed gratitude for the sense of security they experienced in their communities.

“I have encountered people at 7-Elevens who thank us because they feel their children are now safe,” he noted.

He also mentioned that surveys showed 79% of Filipinos supported Duterte’s anti-drug crackdown, which he believes boosted Duterte’s approval and trust ratings until the end of his term.

“That is why President Duterte maintained high approval and trust ratings from the beginning until the conclusion of his presidency,” he added.

Despite the ongoing discourse surrounding Duterte’s legal battles with the International Criminal Court (ICC), Go shifted focus to the former leader’s health.

“In my case, I promised former President Duterte I would prioritize his health,” he said, stressing that his concern is above political matters.

Go also recalled the advice Duterte once gave him. “I always remember Tatay Digong’s words to me: ‘Just do what is right. Prioritize the interests of our nation, prioritize our fellow Filipinos, and you will not go wrong there,’” he stated.