Senator commends Pedro Taduran's IBF title defense through resolution authored by Bong Go as he calls for continued support for Filipino athletes

Senator Christopher "Bong" Go, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports, extended his congratulations to Filipino boxer Pedro Taduran for successfully defending his International Boxing Federation (IBF) World Minimumweight Championship title, emphasizing the need to further support homegrown boxing talents and grassroots sports initiatives.

As author and sponsor of the Senate resolution commending and congratulating Pedro Taduran, Go, in hi recent speech, proudly highlighted Taduran’s latest achievement on the world stage and used the moment to advocate for continued investment in Filipino athletes, particularly those coming from the grassroots.

“Mr. President and esteemed colleagues, as sponsor of this measure and as chairman of the Committee on Sports, I just want to congratulate Pedro Taduran for successfully defending the International Boxing Federation (IBF) World Minimumweight Championship Title,” Go said in his address.

He lauded the victory as another testament to the Philippines’ enduring legacy in boxing, recognizing the country as a cradle of global boxing excellence, and reminding fellow sports advocates of the nation's long tradition of nurturing world-class fighters.

“Mr. President, our country is considered as a breeding ground for boxing talent. Kasama po natin dito si Senator Manny Pacquiao, ang ating pambansang kamao. Boxing is considered one of the most famous sports in the country. We have seen the humble beginnings of world-class boxers, including Olympic standouts.”

Go also urged for unity in pushing forward policies and resources that would boost the potential of Filipino athletes to reach international glory.

“Suportahan po natin ang ating mga boxers at kayang-kaya po natin na mag produce ng marami pang( medalists sa Olympics,” he declared.

Taduran secured his title defense with a hard-earned split decision victory over Japan’s Ginjiro Shigeoka on May 24 in Osaka. Known for his aggressive style, Taduran pressured Shigeoka throughout the fight, landing the more telling blows and dictating the pace.

Go highlighted the historic breakthroughs made by Filipino athletes during his tenure as Chairperson of the Senate sports panel since 2019, attributing Olympic successes to sustained efforts in developing national sports programs and the collaborative efforts of both the government and the private sector.

“Nakakatuwa po na since 2019, ako po naging chairman po ako since 2019, nakamit po natin ang ating first-ever gold sa 2020 Tokyo Olympics at naka dalawang golds naman po tayo sa 2024 (Paris) Olympics. Magtulungan po tayo, suportahan po natin ang ating mga atleta.”

Calling attention to the origins of most Filipino athletes, Go emphasized the vital role of provincial communities in shaping future champions. He appealed for a collaborative approach between government and private stakeholders in cultivating the next generation of sports heroes.

“I am committed to promoting and advancing our grassroots sports development programs for the betterment of our nation. Karamihan po dito galing sa probinsya po. Tulungan po natin sila. Pag nagsama po ang pribado at ang gobyerno, alam kong kaya nating magtagumpay.”

Go has long championed the welfare of Filipino athletes through a comprehensive, inclusive, and grassroots-oriented approach to sports development.

At the heart of this advocacy is the establishment of the National Academy of Sports (NAS), which Go authored and co-sponsored through Republic Act No. 11470. Located in New Clark City, Capas, Tarlac, NAS offers a unique dual-track system combining quality secondary education with a specialized sports curriculum—enabling young student-athletes to hone their talents while continuing their academic journey.

Beyond the ring, Go pointed to the larger meaning of Taduran’s triumph, portraying it as a symbol of Filipino perseverance and resilience amid adversity.

“Mr. President, sa kabila ng ating mga problema at iba’t ibang hamon sa ating buhay, tayong mga Pilipino ay lumalaban at namamayagpag. Nawa’y maging daan ito upang mas marami pang mga kabataan ang mabigyan mo ng inspirasyon na mangarap at magtagumpay sa buhay.”

He closed his remarks with a salute to Taduran and a rallying cry for national pride. “Mabuhay ka, Pedro. Mabuhay ang mga atletang Pilipino!”

As the sponsor of the sports budget in the Senate, Go has been instrumental in securing support for the country's sports development. He advocated for the repair and improvement of key sports facilities, such as the Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Manila and Philsports Arena in Pasig City, believing that providing athletes with proper training environments, equipment, nutrition, and mental support is essential for their success.

Go has also continuously pushed for an increased budget for sports programs. (Danny Simon)