SENATOR Christopher ‘Bong’ Go underscored the importance of sustained partnerships and government investment in sports, saying the victories of Filipino athletes in international competitions are clear proof that proper funding and support lead to historic achievements that bring pride to the nation.
Speaking during the budget deliberations for the proposed 2026 allocations of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), Games and Amusements Board (GAB) and Philippine Racing Commission (PhilRaCom) last week, Go recalled the country’s strong performance in recent years including the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympics.
Go-as chair of the Senate Committee on Sports and Vice Chair of the Senate Finance Committee-proudly pointed out that whole-of-society approach played a vital role in the success particularly in winning its first-ever Olympic gold medal in Tokyo through weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz and securing two gold medals in Paris courtesy of gymnast Carlos Yulo.
‘Those gold medals make us proud as Filipinos,’ Go said.
Go said these victories prove that the country’s investments in athletes-from training to equipment and facilities-yield results that elevate the Philippines’ global reputation.
‘Our recent performance solidified our country’s reputation as a major contender in international sporting events,’ he said. ‘This just also proves that government support is crucial to the success of Filipino athletes.’
He lauded the PSC for supporting the successful hosting of the men’s world volleyball championship where the Philippines scored a historic win over Egypt as he highlighted the country’s hosting of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 that gave the nation a rare opportunity to showcase its hospitality and love for the sport.
He emphasized that beyond the medals and trophies, the athletes’ triumphs create a powerful sense of national pride, inspire the youth to pursue sports and contribute to economic and tourism growth.
‘Hosting is great, for as long as it’s well disciplined, the result will be great success, but not only in sports but also in tourism,’ Go said.
Go reiterated his commitment to continuously fight for increased sports funding, noting that the PSC’s share in the national budget remains small compared to the immense value generated by athletic success.
‘The budget for the PSC is about only 0.004 percent of the national budget,’ he said. But if we win, the pride and honor is for each and every Filipino.’ The senator said he will continue working with his colleagues in the Senate to ensure that sports programs receive sufficient resources to nurture more champions in the future.