Senator Bong Go conveyed his appreciation after being named a Hall of Fame Awardee for Public Service at the 5th Annual Asian Torch Excellence Awards, using the occasion to reiterate that public service is grounded in responsiveness to people’s needs and consistent action beyond recognition.
The recognition was conferred during the event held at Aberdeen Court, Great Eastern Hotel in Quezon City.
Organized by Realtalk Philippines under the leadership of its Founder, President, and Chief Executive Officer, Leo Gamel Orencia—who also serves as Chairman of the Asian Torch Excellence Awards Council—the ceremony honored individuals for their leadership and contributions to the community.
Speaking through his representative, Go extended his message to the organizers and fellow awardees, expressing gratitude for the recognition and acknowledging the significance of the event.
“On behalf of Senator Christopher ‘Bong’ Go, I extend his sincere gratitude to the organizers of the 5th Annual Asian Torch Excellence Awards for this meaningful recognition. He is deeply honored to be named a Hall of Fame Awardee for Public Service,” the veteran legislator’s representative said.
The seasoned lawmaker’s message also recognized the role of the awarding body in sustaining initiatives that highlight service-oriented leadership.
“I thank the award-giving body for continuing to recognize individuals who make a difference through their work and service.”
“We would also like to thank the award-giving body for its efforts in organizing this event and for continuing to recognize individuals who make a difference through their work and service,” the senator added.
Although unable to attend the ceremony personally, he conveyed his acknowledgment of the collective effort represented by the gathering, emphasizing the shared purpose among participants.
“This event is a celebration not only of individual achievements but also of the shared commitment to serve and make a difference in the lives of others,” the message stated.
Central to Go’s statement was his view of public service as an obligation defined by engagement and responsiveness rather than position.
“Senator Bong Go has always believed that public service is a responsibility that goes beyond titles or recognition. It is about showing up, listening to the needs of the people, and doing what we can—no matter how small—to help uplift their lives,” the representative relayed.
Go also expressed hope that recognitions such as the Asian Torch Excellence Awards would encourage continued service grounded in integrity and compassion, particularly in challenging times.
“In times when challenges arise, it is this spirit of service that keeps communities strong and united.”
“He also hopes that recognitions like this will continue to inspire more individuals to lead with integrity, compassion, and dedication. In times when challenges arise, it is this spirit of service that keeps communities strong and united,” the statement continued.
The message concluded with congratulations to the honorees and a call to sustain their efforts across their respective fields.
“To all the honorees, congratulations. May you continue to be a source of inspiration to others, and may your work create a lasting impact in your respective fields,” the representative said, before closing with, “Maraming salamat po, and we wish everyone a successful and memorable celebration.”
“Lubos po akong nagpapasalamat sa pagkilalang ito, but with or without an award, magpapatuloy po akong magseserbisyo sa ating mga kapwa Pilipino dahil bisyo ko ang magserbisyo, at naniniwala ako na ang serbisyo sa tao ay serbisyo sa Diyos,” Go said in his previous speeches.
