Sen. Christopher “Bong” Go expressed gratitude to former President Rodrigo Duterte and Vice President Sara Duterte as he marked the start of his second term in the Senate during a proclamation ceremony Saturday at The Tent in Manila Hotel.

Go credited former President Duterte as a mentor, saying his guidance shaped his more than two decades in public service.

“My deepest thanks go to former President Duterte, who was my mentor and inspiration in serving the people,” Go said in Filipino. “Let us not forget his sacrifices for the Filipino people—like ensuring our children can walk home safely, free from abuse and harm.”

He recalled Duterte’s words: “Always do what is right. You won’t go wrong if you put the interests of the nation and the Filipino people first.”

Go also thanked Vice President Sara Duterte for endorsing their senatorial slate. “Thank you, Vice President Sara, for supporting our group of DuterTEN candidates,” he said.

He began his speech by thanking God and the Filipino public for their continued trust.

“I thank God for life, guidance, and the opportunity to serve again. Truly, God is good and fair. Those who remain humble are blessed,” Go said. “To every Filipino—from Batanes to Jolo—thank you for the trust and support you’ve given to a provincial man from Mindanao.”

Go reaffirmed his commitment to public service, saying, “I will never waste the trust you’ve given me. I will continue to serve to the best of my ability—because serving the people is my passion.”

Go, who led the midterm senatorial race with over 27 million votes, also thanked the Commission on Elections, its staff, and teachers who worked long hours to ensure the successful conduct of the polls.