Thankful Kuya Bong gives back to supporters

Following his convincing win in the 2025 midterm polls, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go held a thanksgiving dinner to express gratitude to supporters, allies and campaign staff, while also reiterating his strong support for a complete ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).

The event, held at the Century Seafood Restaurant in Malate, Manila, was described by Go as a “Thanksgiving dinner” rather than a victory party. He acknowledged the arduous nature of his “historic senatorial campaign,” which he said garnered 27 million votes, the highest in history.

Go paid emotional tribute to former President Rodrigo Duterte, attributing his political success to Duterte’s influence.

“I wouldn’t be number one if not for the sacrifice of Tatay Digong,” Go said, using a familiar term for Duterte. “I wouldn’t be here if not for Tatay Digong. Thank you very much, Tatay Digong, for the love. As I said, I treat Tatay Digong as more than a father.”

He recalled the difficulties faced during the campaign, especially after Duterte left office.

“It was very difficult for our campaign. We really worked hard. It was tough... It was like campaigning without a head when President Duterte was gone,” he said. “But because of your help and support, we overcame it,” Go said.

The lawmaker also stressed that his achievements were only possible through collective effort and Duterte’s unwavering support. He also thanked various religious groups, including Iglesia Ni Cristo, El Shaddai and Adventist communities, for their trust.

He recalled visiting fire victims in Tondo, Manila, immediately after his proclamation as senator-elect, choosing to extend aid rather than celebrate.

Reaffirming his commitment to public service, Go, known as “Mr. Malasakit” for his compassionate service, pledged to honor the public’s trust every day in office.

“I will not waste the opportunity you gave me. I will work for Filipinos. And that is what I can offer you, my addiction to public service,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Go reiterated his full support for an uncompromising ban on POGOs, citing the threats these activities pose to public peace and order.

“As a co-author of this measure, I have long called for the permanent banning of POGOs,” Go stressed, warning that offshore gaming has been linked to various crimes and social problems endangering Filipino communities.

His remarks came as the House of Representatives recently adopted the Senate version of Senate Bill No. 2868, or the Anti-POGO Bill. The proposed legislation seeks to permanently outlaw POGOs in the Philippines, aligning with Go’s position that protecting Filipinos must always take precedence over potential revenue sources.

Go stressed that ensuring the safety and well-being of Filipinos must outweigh any economic benefits from POGO operations. He called for the swift implementation of the ban and cautioned against attempts to preserve or rebrand these operations under new arrangements or exemptions.

Senate Bill No. 2868 provides for the complete revocation of all licenses, accreditations and permits granted to POGO operators and service providers. It mandates the immediate termination of offshore gaming operations and the forfeiture of all assets derived from them.

The bill also criminalizes the recruitment of Filipino workers for such operations, holding violators accountable under anti-human trafficking laws with penalties including imprisonment and fines. Furthermore, it explicitly repeals Republic Act 11590, the law that previously imposed tax regulations on offshore gaming operations.