Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has been conferred the Lifetime Achievement Award for Excellence in Public Service during the World Icon of Excellence and Leadership Awards held on 21 June at The Heritage Hotel Manila in Pasay City.

Accepting the award on Go’s behalf, former government official Abdulgani Macatoman emphasized the senator’s enduring commitment to uplifting ordinary Filipinos, particularly the poor and underserved.

“This award is not just a reflection of his journey, but also of the people he has chosen to serve — the ordinary Filipinos whose lives he strives to uplift every single day,” Macatoman said.

Go, who currently chairs the Senate Committees on Health, Sports, and Youth, was lauded for bringing government services closer to grassroots communities. His public service record includes the institutionalization of the Malasakit Centers, a nationwide network of one-stop medical assistance hubs established under Republic Act No. 11463.

“As many of you know, Senator Bong Go has long been called Mr. Malasakit—a title he embraces with pride, not because of any personal ambition, but because it represents his lifelong mission: to serve with compassion, sincerity, and dedication,” said Macatoman.

Under Go’s leadership, the Malasakit Centers have helped streamline access to government healthcare aid from agencies such as the Department of Health (DOH), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO).

Go has also championed youth development and crime prevention through sports. As chair of the Senate Committee on Sports, he has supported the construction of Super Health Centers and sports facilities across the country.

In his message, Go reiterated his grassroots-focused vision: “From the establishment of Malasakit Centers, to championing Super Health Centers, to pushing for programs that keep our youth away from drugs through sports—his vision has always been clear: public service must be felt on the ground.”

He also reaffirmed his personal mantra of putting service before self. “He often says, ‘Bisyo ko ang magserbisyo.’ And truly, it is a commitment that has guided him through the years—a personal vow to put Filipinos first, especially the poor and marginalized.”

Organizers of the World Icon Awards said the Lifetime Achievement citation honors individuals who have made a significant and lasting impact on their fields. Go’s award recognized his “remarkable achievements and dedication in public service.”

In his concluding message, Go said the recognition only deepens his resolve to continue working for the Filipino people.

“This Lifetime Achievement Award is more than a recognition—it is a reminder that there is still much to be done. Rest assured, Senator Bong Go remains steadfast in promoting pro-poor programs, crafting policies that protect the vulnerable, and supporting initiatives that empower every Filipino to live with dignity and hope,” Macatoman said.