Bong Go advocates for PH sports development , provides support for amateur leagues

Senator Christopher "Bong" Go has reaffirmed his support for the development of amateur sports, emphasizing the importance of providing athletes with proper venues to compete and showcase their skills.

As the chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports and in coordination with the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), Go continues to advocate for programs that benefit leagues like "Ang Liga," which plays a crucial role in the sports development framework in the country.

"This is a result of our collective effort to empower our youth through sports. By ensuring that our colleges and universities have the support they need, we open up countless opportunities for our athletes," said Go.

The 19th season of "Ang Liga" wrapped up with the finals game at the University of the Philippines Diliman Football Field in Quezon City on November 4. The Adamson Soaring Falcons took home the championship with a solid 2-0 win over the Ateneo Blue Eagles.

Adamson's win, powered by standout performances such as those from Lorent Jayaon, underscores the potential of Filipino athletes when given the right support.

The tournament serves as a pre-season event for varsity football teams from the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP), and other collegiate leagues. It is held before the commencement of the regular football tournaments within the academic year's second semester.

The gratitude towards Go and PSC was echoed by league representative Karl Tan, who noted, "We would like to thank Senator Christopher 'Bong' Go and the Philippine Sports Commission for all the financial support which helped the 19th season of Ang Liga be a success.”

“We hope for the best for Senator Bong Go in all his endeavors and we really hope he will still be open to giving assistance in the coming Ang Liga projects and seasons,” Tan added.

With consistent support for expanding sports programs, including the development of youth and women's tournaments, Go looks to further enrich the sports culture in the Philippines, promoting inclusivity and providing a platform for athletes to excel.

Go has also been a strong advocate for increased funding for sports programs. He revealed that last year's proposed budget for the PSC was approximately P200 million. However, he pushed for an additional P1 billion, thereby significantly enhancing the financial support for athletes in international competitions.

"Dahil dito, nakapagbigay tayo ng pinansyal na suporta para sa mga atletang lumahok sa mga international competitions," he added.

This move paved the way for the provision of financial support for athletes participating in international competitions, including the recent 2023 Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia and the Asian Games in China.

Go also emphasized the importance of grassroots sports development, saying, “Tinututukan din natin ang grassroots sports development upang mahubog ang mga kabataan nasaan man sila sa bansa na nagnanais na sumabak sa mga pambansa at pandaigdigang palaro.”

In line with this, he highlighted his role as the author and co-sponsor of Republic Act 11470, which established the National Academy of Sports (NAS) in New Clark City, Tarlac. "Ang NAS ay nagbibigay ng de-kalidad na edukasyon at sports training sa mga batang may potensyal na maging world-class athletes," he added.

Additionally, Go filed Senate bill No. 423, or the Philippine National Games (PNG) Act, to institutionalize a national platform for athletes, especially the youth, to showcase their talents.

"Sa pamamagitan ng PNG, mas maraming talento ang mabibigyan ng pagkakataon na makilala at mapabilang sa ating mga national team," he said.

The senator also continues to support the establishment of sports clinics, community leagues, and the provision of sports equipment in rural areas to promote grassroots sports development, citing how sports can mold the youth into productive and disciplined citizens.

"Sabi ko nga palagi, 'get into sports and stay away from drugs!'" he advised.

"Our mission is to build a foundation where sports are not just a pastime but a catalyst for character building, unity, and national pride. We are investing in our athletes today to inspire a healthier, more vibrant tomorrow,” said Go.