Sen. Christopher "Bong" Go distributed school supplies to 100 students in Sampaloc and Tondo while promoting education and mental well-being as the new school year began.

The outreach activity, conducted on Monday, was organized by Go's office in partnership with local government units and private sector partners.

"Hindi lang po notebooks at uniporme ang kailangang ihanda. Mas mahalaga na handa rin ang ating isipan at katawan para sa panibagong taon ng pag-aaral," Go said in a message.

"Education is key to building a better future for our country, and our youth are the foundation of that future," he added.

The initiative benefited 100 learners, who received school bags containing notebooks, pencils, pens, erasers, and paper during distribution activities at the Barangay 940 Covered Court in Sampaloc and the Barangay 56 Covered Court in Tondo.

Go said the program also supports efforts to equip young Filipinos with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute to their communities. The outreach was conducted in partnership with members of the private sector, including the Junior Chamber International.

As chairman of the Senate Committee on Youth, Go reiterated his commitment to advancing policies that promote accessible, inclusive, and quality education.

He cited several education-related laws that he co-authored or co-sponsored, including Republic Act (RA) No. 12077, or the Student Loan Payment Moratorium During Disasters and Emergencies Act; RA 11510, which institutionalized the Alternative Learning System; RA 11984, or the No Permit, No Exam Prohibition Act; and RA 11997, or the Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act, which increased the annual teaching allowance of public school teachers.

Go also underscored the importance of mental health among students as they adjust to the new school year.

"Mental wellness is just as important as academic performance. Huwag po kayong mahiyang humingi ng tulong kung kinakailangan. Walang masama sa pagkonsulta kung nahihirapan ka na," he said.

He also highlighted RA 12080, or the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act, which institutionalizes mental health and well-being programs in basic education schools.

"Sa ating mga kabataan, huwag kayong mawalan ng pag-asa. Sa abot ng aking makakaya, patuloy ko kayong susuportahan sa inyong paglalakbay patungo sa magandang kinabukasan," Go said.