Senatorial frontrunner Christopher ‘Bong’ Go’s large face cutout attracts supporters from the Filipino Muslim community. PHOTOGRAPH BY TOTO LOZANO FOR THE DAILY TRIBUNE
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Go gets Bangsamoro endorsement

TDT

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go thanked the One Bangsamoro Movement (1BANGSA) for endorsing his candidacy for the 2025 midterm elections, calling it a meaningful recognition of his ongoing support for Muslim Filipinos and Indigenous Peoples (IPs).

“I sincerely thank the One Bangsamoro Movement for their trust and support. I will never disappoint you. I will continue to fight for the welfare and interests of our Muslim brothers and fellow Mindanaoans,” Go said. He reaffirmed his commitment to champion inclusive legislation and programs addressing the needs of marginalized communities nationwide.

The endorsement was announced at the 1BANGSA event on Tuesday where national president Maulana “Alan” A. Balangi highlighted Go’s strong track record of public service aligned with the Bangsamoro people’s pursuit of dignity, social equity and lasting peace.

Go, running for reelection under the number 28 slot, emphasized his hands-on work with Muslim and IP communities.

One of his key initiatives is the expansion of Malasakit Centers across the country, including six centers within the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). These centers aim to simplify access to medical assistance, especially in underserved areas.

“Before, people had to travel long distances for help. Now, we have Malasakit Centers within hospitals to speed up services,” Go said, who chairs the Senate Committee on Health.

Go also mentioned his authorship of Republic Act 11696, or the Marawi Siege Victims Compensation Act, providing reparation to internally displaced persons (IDPs) affected by the 2017 siege. He co-sponsored Senate Bill No. 1273, which ensures culturally appropriate burial grounds for Muslim Filipinos and IPs, honoring traditional practices.

Additionally, Go filed SBN 2917, or the Delayed Registration of Birth Act of 2025, to simplify and waive fees for birth registration, particularly in remote Muslim and Indigenous communities. The bill aims to assist around 3.7 million unregistered Filipinos.

Go has also advocated for increased funding for the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos, supporting Hajj subsidies, scholarships, health programs, and community development.

“We will continue serving you because public service is my passion, and I believe that serving people is serving God, serving Allah,” Go emphasized, known as Mr. Malasakit for his compassionate service to Filipinos in need.