Press Release - How Bong Go's support helped fuel a Cebuana gymnast's gold medal journey -- inspiring the youth to get into sports, stay away from illegal drugs, to keep healthy and fit

In the quiet moments before her final performance at the Dream Cup International Gymnastics Competition, held from August 30 to September 4, 2023, in Kuala Lumpur, Mikhaela Kirsten Silverio, the head coach and team manager of the Gymnastics Academy of Cebu, took a deep breath. The rhythmic gymnastics apparatus gleamed under the lights, and she felt the weight of her journey--the countless hours of practice, the sacrifices, and, most recently, the financial uncertainty that threatened to keep her from competing.

But there she stood, not just as a competitor, but as a symbol of resilience, a story that reached far beyond the gymnasium. The crowd watched in awe as Silverio moved with grace and precision, eventually claiming a gold medal in the ball apparatus category of the senior division, along with two silver medals in the hoops and ribbon categories.

Her triumph was not just a personal victory. It was a testament to the support she received, particularly from Senator Christopher "Bong" Go, who chairs the Senate Committee on Sports. Known for his involvement in various sports-related initiatives, Go had become a quiet yet powerful ally to many athletes like Silverio, who might have otherwise been sidelined by financial constraints.

Months before the competition, Silverio had reached out to the Philippine Sports Commission, seeking financial assistance to cover her expenses. As fate would have it, her request found support from Senator Go. Recognizing the importance of nurturing homegrown talent, especially in sports, Go made sure that Silverio's request did not go unanswered.

"When I saw her story, I knew we had to help. It's not just about winning medals. It's about showing the world what Filipinos are capable of," Go shared in a reflective moment after learning of Silverio's success. "Sports have the power to uplift communities, and supporting our athletes is a way of investing in our future."

Go's involvement in sports has been a consistent part of his legislative agenda. His efforts have gone beyond mere rhetoric. They have translated into tangible support for athletes across various disciplines, from grassroots programs to international competitions.

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