Senator Christopher “Bong” Go underscored the importance of grassroots sports in youth development as the Fil-Chi Athletic Association Inc. Basketball League opened its second season at Amoranto Stadium in Quezon City on Sunday, 8 February.

Speaking as chairperson of the Senate committees on sports and youth, Go said community-based leagues provide young athletes with opportunities to develop their skills and character.

“I would like to congratulate the organizers, especially FCAAI Chairman Wilbert Loa, the league officials, coaches, and all participating teams for making this event possible. Ang mga ganitong liga ay napakahalaga dahil nagbibigay ito ng pagkakataon sa ating mga atleta na maipakita ang kanilang talento at mapalakas ang kanilang disiplina at teamwork,” he stated.

Go also thanked the Philippine Sports Commission for supporting the league.

"Nais ko rin pong magpasalamat sa Philippine Sports Commission for supporting this league. Your continued support of grassroots sports programs and community leagues plays a big role in strengthening sports development in our country,” he said.

Reiterating his legislative role, Go stressed the need for sustained support for grassroots programs.

“As the Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports and the Senate Committee on Youth, I remain fully committed to strengthening sports development in our country—especially from the grassroots. Naniniwala po ako na kapag inalagaan natin ang ating kabataan at mga atleta, we build not just strong individuals, but a strong future for our nation,” he said.

Go cited additional funding he sponsored for the Philippine Sports Commission since 2019 to support grassroots programs and athletes competing internationally.

“In fact, since 2019, I have sponsored and defended additional funding for the Philippine Sports Commission, particularly to support grassroots sports development and to help our athletes participating in international competitions. Ginawa natin ito para masiguro na hindi lamang ang mga elite athletes ang nabibigyan ng pagkakataon, kundi pati ang mga batang Pilipinong nangangarap maging atleta balang araw,” Go explained.

He also referenced Republic Act No. 11470, which established the National Academy of Sports in New Clark City, Capas, Tarlac.

“Gusto ko rin pong ibahagi na isa sa mga pinagmamalaki kong inaksyunan ay ang pag-akda at pag-co-sponsor ng Republic Act No. 11470, na lumikha sa National Academy of Sports sa New Clark City, Capas, Tarlac,” he said. “The NAS is not just a school—it is a home for our student-athletes who pursue excellence both in academics and in sports.”

To expand access, Go noted he filed Senate Bill No. 171 seeking to establish regional campuses of the academy. He also cited Senate Bill No. 407, which seeks to amend the National Athletes and Coaches Benefits and Incentives Act to provide better incentives for para-athletes.

“I also filed Senate Bill No. 407, which seeks to amend the National Athletes and Coaches Benefits and Incentives Act, to ensure that our para-athletes receive better incentives. This is a matter of fairness, inclusivity, and recognition of their dedication,” he said.

Go likewise mentioned Senate Bill No. 413, or the Philippine National Games, and Senate Bill No. 678, or the proposed National Tertiary Games Act, which aim to broaden competition opportunities for young and collegiate athletes.

He also highlighted funding support for sports facilities such as the Rizal Memorial Coliseum and Philsports Arena.

“Bukod d’yan, bilang sponsor ng sports budget sa Senado, ipinaglaban ko rin ang pondo para sa pagsasaayos ng ating mga pasilidad, kabilang ang Rizal Memorial Coliseum at Philsports Arena,” he said. “Mahalaga po ang modern facilities, but equally important is moral support—mula sa pamilya, coaches, at sa buong komunidad.”

Addressing the players, Go reiterated his call for youth engagement in sports.

“Sa ating mga players, I always remind our youth: get into sports, stay away from drugs, to keep us healthy and fit,” he said. “Sports teach discipline, respect, and perseverance—values that will guide you not only in the game but in life.”

He ended his message by wishing the league a successful season.

“To everyone here today, thank you for your passion and support for basketball and for sports development. Nawa’y maging matagumpay, masaya, at ligtas ang inyong liga. Good luck, enjoy the game. Go lang kayo ng go!” he said.