Senator Bong Go underscored the role of grassroots sports in youth development and community building as the Fil-Chi Athletic Association Inc. Basketball League formally opened its second season at the Amoranto Stadium in Quezon City.
Speaking in his capacity as Chairperson of the Senate Committees on Sports and on Youth, Go emphasized that community-based leagues provide young athletes with platforms to hone their skills and develop valuable life lessons.
“I would like to congratulate the organizers, especially FCAAI Chairman Wilbert Loa, the league officials, coaches, and all participating teams for making this event possible. Ang mga ganitong liga ay napakahalaga dahil nagbibigay ito ng pagkakataon sa ating mga atleta na maipakita ang kanilang talento at mapalakas ang kanilang disiplina at teamwork,” the veteran legislator said.
The seasoned lawmaker also expressed appreciation for the support extended by national sports institutions, particularly the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC).
“Nais ko rin pong magpasalamat sa Philippine Sports Commission for supporting this league. Your continued support of grassroots sports programs and community leagues plays a big role in strengthening sports development in our country,” the senator said, recognizing the commission’s role in sustaining community-level competitions.
Reiterating his responsibilities in the Senate, the senator pointed to the need for sustained attention to grassroots programs as the foundation of national sports development.
“Kapag inalagaan natin ang ating kabataan at mga atleta, we build not just strong individuals, but a strong future for our nation.”
“As the Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports and the Senate Committee on Youth, I remain fully committed to strengthening sports development in our country—especially from the grassroots. Naniniwala po ako na kapag inalagaan natin ang ating kabataan at mga atleta, we build not just strong individuals, but a strong future for our nation,” he said.
Go further cited his work in the national budget process, particularly in relation to funding for sports programs and athlete support.
“In fact, since 2019, I have sponsored and defended additional funding for the Philippine Sports Commission, particularly to support grassroots sports development and to help our athletes participating in international competitions. Ginawa natin ito para masiguro na hindi lamang ang mga elite athletes ang nabibigyan ng pagkakataon, kundi pati ang mga batang Pilipinong nangangarap maging atleta balang araw,” he explained.
Go also discussed specific legislative measures he authored and co-sponsored to strengthen institutional support for student-athletes.
“Gusto ko rin pong ibahagi na isa sa mga pinagmamalaki kong inaksyunan ay ang pag-akda at pag-co-sponsor ng Republic Act No. 11470, na lumikha sa National Academy of Sports sa New Clark City, Capas, Tarlac,” he said, referring to the law that established the National Academy of Sports (NAS).
Go described the institution’s purpose, saying, “The NAS is not just a school—it is a home for our student-athletes who pursue excellence both in academics and in sports”.
To expand access to specialized sports education, Go noted that he filed Senate Bill No. 171, which seeks to establish regional campuses of the NAS, allowing more student-athletes from different parts of the country to benefit from the program.
Addressing athlete welfare, he cited additional measures he filed in the Senate.
“I also filed Senate Bill No. 407, which seeks to amend the National Athletes and Coaches Benefits and Incentives Act, to ensure that our para-athletes receive better incentives. This is a matter of fairness, inclusivity, and recognition of their dedication,” Go said.
He also highlighted proposals aimed at broadening competitive opportunities for young athletes nationwide.
“Nagfile din ako ng Senate Bill No. 413, or the Philippine National Games, upang magkaroon tayo ng grassroots sports competition or a mini-Olympics that can serve as a recruitment platform for national competitions,” Go said.
He added that he likewise filed Senate Bill No. 678, or the proposed National Tertiary Games Act, which seeks to establish a national multi-sport tournament for college athletes.
Beyond legislation, Go pointed to investments in sports infrastructure as part of overall development efforts.
“Bukod diyan, bilang sponsor ng sports budget sa Senado, ipinaglaban ko rin ang pondo para sa pagsasaayos ng ating mga pasilidad, kabilang ang Rizal Memorial Coliseum at Philsports Arena,” he said, stressing that facilities remain important components of athlete preparation.
“Mahalaga po ang modern facilities, but equally important is moral support—mula sa pamilya, coaches, at sa buong komunidad,” Go added.
Turning directly to the athletes, he reiterated a message he often shares with young people engaged in sports.
“Sa ating mga players, I always remind our youth: get into sports, stay away from drugs, to keep us healthy and fit,” Go said, emphasizing the role of sports in promoting positive life choices.
“Sports teach discipline, respect, and perseverance—values that will guide you not only in the game but in life.”
He further noted the values learned through athletic participation, saying, “Sports teach discipline, respect, and perseverance—values that will guide you not only in the game but in life.”
Go concluded his message by thanking those involved in the league and wishing the participants a successful and safe season.
“To everyone here, thank you for your passion and support for basketball and for sports development. Nawa’y maging matagumpay, masaya, at ligtas ang inyong liga. Good luck, enjoy the game. Go lang kayo ng go!” he stressed.
