Go joins Davaoeños for Duterte’s 80th birthday

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go joined over 350,000 Davaoeños on Friday, 28 March, to celebrate former president Rodrigo Duterte's 80th birthday. The gathering served as both a birthday tribute and a prayer rally for Duterte’s health, safety, and return to the Philippines.

Go said Duterte would have been touched by the support, even from afar.

"Although the celebration is quieter, if Tatay Digong could hear us, I know he’d be happy because the Filipino people are united. More than 200 people are with him, despite the distance," Go said in Filipino.

He recalled Duterte’s preference for modest birthdays, often spending time with cancer patients instead of hosting parties.

"Even 26 years ago, when he was called 'Mayor Rody,' he never wanted to be called president. He always kept things simple," Go said.

Go expressed the pain of being separated from Duterte, whom he called a father figure.

"It hurts… It feels like I’ve lost a father. He’s alone on his birthday," Go said.

Go urged Filipinos to pray for Duterte's health, sharing a message from the former president.

"He said, 'Don’t visit me yet. You should win first,'" Go said, adding that they plan to visit after the elections.

Go also reflected on Duterte’s quiet generosity and long history of helping cancer patients.

"Some of our friends contributed food for the cancer patients," Go said. "It’s inspiring to see his patients survive and thrive."

He called on Filipinos to pray for Duterte's safety and freedom.

"Let’s pray for his health, safety, and freedom," Go said.

When asked about his message to Duterte, Go kept it simple.

"Happy birthday, Mayor. I wish you long life and good health. I hope you live to 150 and come back to be loved by the people," Go said.

Go reiterated his commitment to Duterte’s advice to focus on public service first.

"I plan to visit after the elections, as he told us—service first," Go said.

Earlier that day, Go visited 84 young cancer patients at the Southern Philippines Medical Center in Davao City, continuing a tradition shared by him and Duterte of spending birthdays with children battling illness.