Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, vice chair of the Senate Committee on National Defense, reaffirmed his commitment to soldiers, other uniformed personnel and former rebels.

Go made the assurance during the inauguration of Kaakibat Hall at the 39th Infantry Battalion headquarters in Poblacion, Makilala, Cotabato, on 8 August.

The event included a ribbon-cutting, unveiling of a marker, signing of the guest book, and a tour of the new facility, which will serve as both a functional and symbolic space for troops.

Go was welcomed by Vice Mayor Ryan Tabanay, Board Member Neneng Macasarte, and Capt. Hercules Marabe. He was later received by Rep. Rudy Caoagdan, incoming battalion commander Lt. Col. Hector Estolas, Lt. Col. Anthony Solamo and Col. Silas Trasmontero.

Local officials, including Mayor Armando Quibod and Magpet Vice Mayor Toto Gonzaga, also attended. In his speech, Go thanked the community for giving him another term in the Senate.

“Earlier, when I arrived, many thanked me for the help and for programs like this Kaakibat Hall. But do not thank me. Honestly, I should be the one thanking you because you gave me a second chance to serve you,” he said.

Go pledged to put the nation first, “especially our poor countrymen,” and vowed not to waste the trust given to him.

The senator also met with former rebels, recalling peace-building efforts during former President Rodrigo Duterte’s first year in office.

“You know, during his first term, his first year in office, he was the one who really reached out. He said, ‘I want my government to be inclusive, so let’s work together.’ … Whatever he said, whatever he promised, he did,” Go said.

He urged rebels to reintegrate into society and called on the government to ensure they receive livelihood support.

Go also highlighted the Duterte administration’s move in 2018 to double the salaries of police, soldiers, and other uniformed personnel — a reform he said he fought for and continues to support in his legislative work.