Press Release - Bong Go advocates for health and fitness at Quezon City basketball cup; emphasizes sports as key to combatting drug use among youth

Senator Christopher "Bong" Go advocated for engaging the youth in sports as a strategic approach to divert them from the dangers of illegal drug use during the Mikey Belmonte Cup 2024 on Sunday, June 9. The event was conducted in partnership with Senator Go as part of his advocacy to promote grassroots sports development in collaboration with the Philippine Sports Commission and the local government.

Speaking to an enthusiastic crowd in Quezon City, Go, who chairs the Senate Committee on Sports, highlighted the critical role of sports in steering young people away from harmful vices, particularly illegal drugs.

"Get into sports, stay away from drugs to keep us healthy and fit," he urged, underscoring sports as not only a hobby but a vital component of a healthy lifestyle.

He also extended his gratitude towards Councilor Mikey Belmonte for his dedication to nurturing local sports talents, adding, "Bilang chair ng Senate Committee on Sports, saludo ako kay Councilor Mikey Belmonte sa kanyang pagtutok at suporta sa ating mga atleta."

"Sa pamamagitan ng kanyang mga adhikain, hindi lamang niya binibigyan ng pagkakataon ang mga atleta na ipamalas ang kanilang kakayahan, kundi binibigyan din sila ng inspirasyon na abutin ang kanilang mga pangarap," he added.

The Philippine Sports Commission was also acknowledged by Go for its support in facilitating the event, alongside the community's coaches, parents, and supporters, who all contribute significantly to the success witnessed.

Meanwhile, Go took this opportunity to discuss his legislative efforts aimed at enhancing the sports sector, including the successful establishment of the National Academy of Sports in New Clark City, Tarlac, under Republic Act No. 11470, which he authored and co-sponsored.

According to Go, the academy is a testament to the government's dedication to integrating academic and sports excellence, providing student-athletes with state-of-the-art facilities.

Moreover, Go's legislative efforts include the filing and principal sponsorship of Senate Bill No. 2514, or the proposed Philippine National Games (PNG) Act, which aims to institutionalize a comprehensive framework for a national sports program,