Senator Bong Go urged young Filipinos to spend more time participating in sports and other meaningful activities instead of remaining excessively immersed in social media and gadgets, stressing the role of physical activity in promoting discipline, resilience, and healthier lifestyles.
Speaking during a Senate hearing, the chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports said sports can provide young people with a constructive outlet while helping them develop values that extend beyond competition.
“Mas dapat nating hikayatin ang mga kabataan na lumabas, maglaro, at mag-sports kaysa buong araw na nakatutok sa social media at gadgets.”
“Mas dapat nating hikayatin ang mga kabataan na lumabas, maglaro, at mag-sports kaysa buong araw na nakatutok sa social media at gadgets. Mas maraming oras sa court, sa field, o sa playground; mas kaunting oras sa screen,” Go said.
The veteran legislator cited the suggestion of Mindanaoan Olympic boxer Eumir Marcial, a native of Zamboanga City, to encourage greater youth participation in sports.
According to the seasoned lawmaker, greater involvement in sports can help young people build habits and character traits that can guide them as they grow.
“Sports teach discipline, teamwork, perseverance, and resilience—mga mahahalagang katangian sa paghubog ng mabuting pagkatao,” the senator said.
He also pointed to the broader concern over low levels of physical activity among adolescents.
The World Health Organization has reported that more than 80% of school-going adolescents worldwide do not meet recommended levels of physical activity, while children and adolescents are generally encouraged to engage in at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day.
Go stressed that encouraging young people to become more active does not mean rejecting technology or social media altogether.
“Hindi natin layunin na ipagbawal ang teknolohiya.”
“Hindi natin layunin na ipagbawal ang teknolohiya. Ang dapat na layunin natin ay tiyaking ginagamit ito nang responsable at naaayon sa edad ng ating mga anak,” he said.
Instead, Go said families, schools, communities, and government should provide young Filipinos with more opportunities to participate in sports and other productive activities that can keep them engaged and away from harmful influences.
“Kung gusto nating ilayo ang ating mga kabataan sa karahasan, sa bisyo, at sa masasamang impluwensya, ilapit natin sila sa sports at sa iba pang makabuluhang gawain. Kaya sabi ko nga, kaysa ma-hook sa social media, sa sports na lang,” he added.
Go has consistently promoted grassroots sports development as part of his youth advocacy, emphasizing the importance of making athletic opportunities more accessible to children and young athletes across the country.
He reiterated that sports should be viewed not only as a pathway for competitive athletes but also as a practical means of improving the physical and overall well-being of young Filipinos.
“Get into sports, stay away from drugs to keep us healthy and fit,” Go concluded.
