SENATE Committee on Sports and Youth Chairperson Christopher ‘Bong’ Go emphasized the transformative role of sports in fostering discipline, camaraderie, and positive values among Filipino youth.

During the opening ceremony of the Commission on Higher Education All-Star Basketball Friendship Games, Go lauded CHED’s efforts to promote sports and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to address athletes from various collegiate leagues, including the University Athletic Association of the Philippines, National Collegiate Athletic Association, State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association, Private Schools Athletic Association, Association of Local Colleges and Universities Athletic Association, and National Athletic Association of Schools, Colleges and Universities.

“Napakahalaga ng ganitong mga pagkakataon para sa ating kabataan at para sa larangan ng sports sa ating bansa,” Go remarked.

He underscored the event’s role in building character, inspiring communities, and fostering camaraderie through basketball.

Go also invoked advice from former President Rodrigo Duterte, saying, “Lagi ko pong sinusunod ang bilin ni Tatay Digong na ‘Do what is right.’ Sa basketball, sa buhay, at sa serbisyo sa kapwa, ito ang gabay natin: gawin ang tama at laging may malasakit, pagmamahal, at serbisyo sa lipunan.”

He reflected on the life lessons imparted by basketball: “Ang basketball ay higit pa sa puntos na inyong nai-score o championship na inyong natamo. Basketball teaches us teamwork, resilience, and discipline—mga katangiang mahalaga hindi lang sa court kundi sa tunay na buhay.”

Go described basketball as a universal language transcending socioeconomic and geographic boundaries. He noted that the ongoing World Basketball Week showcases the Philippines not only as a nation of basketball fans but also as a country capable of producing world-class players.

“Kaya naman, patuloy nating suportahan ang sports, hindi lamang bilang libangan, kundi bilang instrumento para sa mas matibay na pagkakaisa at pagkakaintindihan,” he said.