SENATOR Christopher “Bong” Go is urging stronger efforts to promote physical activity among Filipino youth amid growing concerns over rising obesity and the long-term risk of heart disease and other lifestyle-related illnesses.

Go’s call follows a World Health Organization (WHO) study published in The Lancet Global Health, which found that 40.3% of Filipino adolescents aged 11 to 17 failed to log even 60 minutes of physical activity on any day in the previous week.

This figure is significantly higher than the global average of 25%, placing the Philippines among countries with the highest rates of physical inactivity among teenagers. The study also highlighted a gender gap, showing Filipino girls were less physically active than boys (42.7% reporting no active days compared to 38% for boys).

Data from the Department of Science and Technology–Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI) paints an equally concerning picture: overweight and obesity rates among Filipino adolescents aged 10 to 19 rose from 12.5% in 2023 to 15.6% in 2025.

Approximately one in every six Filipino adolescents is now overweight or obese, heightening their vulnerability to cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and hypertension.

As Vice Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health, Go stressed that preventing noncommunicable conditions must start early by encouraging children and teenagers to adopt active lifestyles. He urged young people to reduce screen time and prioritize sports and outdoor exercise.

“Get into sports, stay away from drugs to keep us healthy and fit,” Go reminded the youth.

He also called on schools, families, and local government units to collaborate in providing safe, accessible spaces for youth activities.

Go, who also chairs the Senate Committees on Sports and Youth, continues to advocate for grassroots sports development through community tournaments, clinics, and the rehabilitation of public recreational facilities. He cited Republic Act No.11470, which established the National Academy of Sports in New Clark City, Tarlac, alongside Senate Bill No. 171,which seeks to establish regional campuses for the academy.

Emphasizing that sports build discipline, teamwork, perseverance, and resilience, Go reiterated that keeping youth engaged in physical activity is critical to protecting them from harmful habits and long-term health risks.