Bong Go vows to push for development of Batangas

MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Bong Go extended his congratulations and best wishes to the people of Batangas on the 440th anniversary of the province during the Dangal ng Batangan Awards held on Wednesday to mark the event.

A Batangueño and an adopted son of Calabarzon, the lawmaker was the recipient of the Dangal ng Batangan sa Pagmamalasakit sa Bayan.

The award was given in recognition of his commitment as a legislator to push for the interests and long-term development needs of the province.

“Alam niyo, hindi ako lumaki ng Batangas pero ang lolo at lola ko ay nanggaling dyan. They migrated to Davao (City) kung saan sila nakipagsapalaran kaya nagkaroon na ng isang malaking pamilya ng mga Tesoro doon,” Go said in a speech delivered online. “Kapag pinaghalo ang Bisaya at Batangueño, ang resulta niyan ay tapang at malasakit. Bagama’t hindi ako lumaki nga diyan, ako po ay very proud na Batangueño.”

Go expressed his gratitude to the provincial government for celebrating the occasion by honoring his colleagues and fellow Batangueños who have contributed to the political, economic and cultural development of the province.

He commended the Batangas Culture and Arts Council for protecting and preserving the historical and cultural heritage of the province and for providing a lifeline and supportive environment for its local artists.

The senator thanked the Batangas Tourism Council for its efforts to promote tourist destinations in the province.

Go also vowed to continue his humanitarian efforts for distressed and disadvantaged communities. Since the onset of the pandemic, his team has provided much-needed aid and support to residents of Alitagtag, Balayan, Calaca, Laurel, Lobo, Nasugbu, San Jose, San Nicolas and Sta. Teresita towns as well as the cities of Batangas and Lipa.