Press Release - Bong Go pushes for continued support to sports development as Senate tackles proposed 2025 budget of PSC and GAB

In a budget hearing held on Monday, October 7, Senator Christopher "Bong" Go expressed his support for the 2025 proposed budgets of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and the Games and Amusement Board (GAB).

Go emphasized the critical role of sports in nation-building as well as in inculcating values such as discipline, hardwork and sportsmanship to the youth while keeping them away from harmful vices such as illegal drugs.

In his opening speech, Go highlighted the successes of Filipino athletes in recent years, proudly recalling the milestones reached during his tenure as chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports since 2019 and sponsor of the national budget for sports being Vice Chair of the Senate Finance Committee.

"Nakuha natin 'yung first-ever gold natin nu'ng Tokyo Olympics with Hidilyn Diaz," he recounted, noting that it was a historic achievement for the country. Along with the gold, the Philippines also secured a silver and two bronze medals during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

The senator further detailed the country's accomplishments at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where Filipino athletes surpassed previous records by securing four medals, including two golds from Carlos Yulo in gymnastics, and two bronze medals from boxers Ira Villegas and Nesthy Petecio.

"Nakaka-proud, nakakawala ng pagod. 'Pag nakita mo na 'yung ating tina-trabaho ay nagbubunga at masaya po ang taong bayan," Go remarked.

Beyond these individual achievements, Go emphasized that these successes serve as proof of the country's growing reputation as a major contender in international sports as a result of the collaborative efforts and increased support given by the government and the private sector.

However, Go stressed the need for transparency and proper utilization of government funds allocated for sports development.

"Basta ang pakiusap ko lang po sa inyo, gamitin po 'yung pondo sa tama. Ibalik po natin sa taumbayan 'yung pera nila ng maayos na serbisyo, lalung lalo na sa ating mga atleta," he urged.

"I just ask both the PSC and GAB to fully utilize your given budgets as long as the public funds are put to work together to ensure that the funds are maximized for the benefit of our