Bong Go vows to serve Duterte, Filipinos

DAVAO CITY, Philippines — Former special assistant to the president and senatorial candidate Christopher “Bong” Go on Thursday said he has dedicated his life to serving President Duterte and the Filipino people. 

Go made the vow during the grand campaign rally here of the Hugpong ng Pagbabago regional party, led by presidential daughter Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte. He thanked Mayor Sara, congressional candidate Paolo Duterte, vice mayoralty candidate Baste Duterte and other officials of the city for their support.

“I owe them (Duterte family) so much. I will serve them and the people until I die,” said Go, who had been the trusted aide of President Duterte for over 21 years.

After the Davao residents said they are satisfied with the performance of President Duterte in the first three years of his term, Go assured the crowd that he fully supports the programs and policies of the President. 

“I will continue the change started by President Duterte, like the campaign against corruption, criminality and illegal drugs,” Go said.   

“What I learned and started here in Davao, I will bring to the whole country and continue serving the people, the country and God,” he added. 

Go said that in running for the Senate, he has prepared a legislative agenda that includes the improvement in the delivery of health services in the country, noting that many public hospitals lack the necessary equipment and facilities to handle the large volume of patients.

“I also want to institutionalize the Malasakit Center so its programs can continue even if Duterte is no longer president, and we hope to add more Malasakit Centers in different provinces and cities so we can help more people,” Go added.   

Other priority concerns under Go’s legislative agenda are programs for agriculture, education, housing for the poor, long-term sports development, fire protection and prevention, localized peace talks, barangay welfare, creation of Department of OFW and improved benefits for senior citizens. 

Go also expressed his gratitude to the people of Davao City after receiving a triumphant welcome during his motorcade hours before the rally. Despite the downpour in the afternoon, many residents came out in the streets to welcome him. 

 Go’s convoy was mobbed in many places by supporters waving back at him and chanting, “Go, Bong Go!”