SENATOR Christopher “Bong” Go emphasized the vital role of education in sports development as he called for the expansion of the National Academy of Sports (NAS) during the opening of the Central Visayas Regional Athletic Association (CVRAA) weightlifting competition 2026 in Barangay Naalad, Naga City.

Addressing student-athletes, coaches, and education stakeholders, Go stressed that sports should not only develop athletic skills but also support academic growth. He highlighted NAS—established under Republic Act No. 11470—as a model institution that integrates secondary education with specialized sports training.

“Events like this are not just about competition. They are about unity, sportsmanship, and allowing our youth to grow, both as athletes and as individuals,” Go said, underscoring the importance of accessible sports education programs in nation-building.

Go called for replicating the NAS model across the country, particularly in underserved areas of Visayas and Mindanao, to provide equal opportunities for student-athletes. He noted that his proposed Senate measures aim to institutionalize sports education pathways—from grassroots training to higher education.

Among these initiatives are bills to establish regional NAS campuses, strengthen support for para-athletes, and create a national tertiary sports framework that enables student-athletes to balance academics with competitive training.

The senator said expanding sports academies will not only produce elite athletes but also well-rounded individuals equipped with discipline, resilience, and academic competence.

Go also recognized the role of the Department of Education and the Philippine Sports Commission in advancing grassroots programs, highlighting CVRAA as a regional qualifying event for the Palarong Pambansa.

“Through competitions like this, we discover future champions who may one day represent our country,” he said.

Focusing on weightlifting, Go cited Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz as an example of how education, discipline, and perseverance can lead to global success. He encouraged young athletes to pursue both academics and sports, noting that true success is defined not just by winning, but by continuous learning and self-improvement.

“Manalo man o matalo, what matters most is that you give your best and continue to strive for excellence,” he said.

As chair of the Senate committees on Sports and Youth, Go reiterated his advocacy for holistic youth development, combining education, athletics, and values formation. He also urged young people to adopt healthy lifestyles and avoid harmful habits.

With continued expansion of sports education programs, Go expressed optimism that more Filipino student-athletes will gain access to quality training and academic opportunities, paving the way for success both in sports and in life.