Senator Bong Go paid tribute to the courage and selfless service of Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) personnel by dispatching his team to visit and extend assistance to soldiers and families affected by the ambush incident in Munai, Lanao del Norte recently.
The Go’s team, together with Dr. Amy Adona, visited the 10th Infantry Battalion (10IB) P-4, Apil, Camp Evangelista in Cagayan de Oro City, where Corporal Rollen dela Cruz is recovering after being wounded in action during the ambush.
The team also proceeded to Salay, Misamis Oriental, to personally convey support and condolences to the family of Private First Class Sean Mark Laniton, who was killed in action in the same incident.
Likewise, the team and Adona, paid their respects to the families of Sergeants Gilbert Arnoza and Junel Calgas, as well as Staff Sergeant Diosito Araya, who also lost their lives during the attack.
Through his team, the veteran legislator extended financial assistance, grocery packs, flowers, and other items to both the wounded-in-action and killed-in-action soldiers and their families.
In a video call, the seasoned lawmaker delivered his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.
The senator commended the bravery of the fallen soldier and honored the courage of all members of the AFP who continue to risk their lives to protect the Filipino people.
“Utang na loob ng buong sambayanan ang kanilang serbisyo.”
“Hindi matatawaran ang tapang at sakripisyo ng ating mga sundalo. Utang na loob ng buong sambayanan ang kanilang serbisyo,” Go said, as he assured the families and fellow soldiers of continued support.
Promoting the welfare of military and uniformed personnel has long been his priority. Recalling his time as Special Assistant to the President during the Duterte administration, Go shared how former President Rodrigo Duterte directed him to ensure that soldiers were given due attention and support.
“Naalala ko inutusan ako ni former President Duterte. Sabi niya, unahin mo ang mga sundalo, iyon ang ipinangako ko sa kanila.”
“Naalala ko inutusan ako ni former President Duterte. Sabi niya, unahin mo ang mga sundalo, iyon ang ipinangako ko sa kanila. Iyong entry position, idoble mo ang sahod,” he recalled.
During the Duterte administration, then-Special Assistant to the President Go played a key role in pushing for salary increases for military and other uniformed personnel, emphasizing that improved compensation was a meaningful recognition of their dedication and sacrifices.
Beyond compensation, he is the principal author and co-sponsor of Republic Act No. 12177, or the Free Legal Assistance to Military and Uniformed Personnel Act, which mandates the provision of government-funded legal assistance to MUPs facing charges arising from the performance of their official duties.
Go also filed Senate Bill No. 684, which seeks to grant scholarships to the dependent children of MUPs killed in the line of duty.
“Maraming salamat po sa walang kapantay na serbisyo sa ating bansa ng ating uniformed personnel. At mula noon hanggang ngayon po ay full support po ako sa inyo. Salamat po sa inyong serbisyo sa ating bayan,” Go remarked.
