Press Release - Bong Go's supports grassroots sports development initiatives in Sultan Kudarat

In Tacurong City, Sultan Kudarat, a weekend of athletic enthusiasm unfolded as students, faculty, and coaches gathered for the 5th Barkada League Sportsfest. From September 27 to 29, the Sportsfest, held at Sultan Kudarat State University, became a symbol of unity and resilience through sports and competition.

For Senator Christopher "Bong" Go, chairperson of the Senate Committees on Sports and on Youth, this was another opportunity to fuel his long-standing vision of empowering Filipino youth through sports.

Go, in partnership with the Philippine Sports Commission, Senator Pia Cayetano, and Department of Education Secretary Sonny Angara, provided financial support for the event, recognizing sports as not only a tool for health and well-being but also a powerful force in building camaraderie and discipline among young Filipinos.

With significant financial support through the Philippine Sports Commission, this ensured that the participants, whether students, athletes, referees, or coaches, could experience the spirit of competition without the weight of financial limitations.

"Ang tagumpay sa sports ay hindi lamang nasusukat sa bilang ng mga panalo, kundi sa mga aral ng pagkakaibigan at disiplina na natutunan natin sa bawat laro. Nandito ako upang patuloy kayong suportahan sa pag-abot ng inyong mga pangarap," Go remarked.

This year's theme, "Moving Onward to a Resilient and Exceptional Friendship through Fitness and Sports," encapsulated the spirit of the three-day event, which saw students from various campuses of Sultan Kudarat State University and neighboring schools--Notre Dame of Tacurong College, Southern Mindanao Institute of Technology, and South Central Mindanao College of Science and Technology--coming together in healthy competition.

The event featured an array of sports, including basketball, volleyball, and football, with each game strengthening bonds between participants from different institutions.

During the three-day event, Go's Malasakit Team also distributed special tokens to the participants, referees, and coaches. Beyond the gifts, however, was the deeper message that Go wanted to send to the youth of Sultan Kudarat: that sports, much like