SENATOR Christopher ‘Bong’ Go stresses the power of sports as a tool to steer Filipino youth away from the dangers of illegal drug use.

During the opening ceremonies of the 2023 Batang Pinoy and Philippine National Games at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium, Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Manila City, Go emphasized the importance of sports in enhancing the well-being of Filipinos.

He pointed out that active participation in sports not only fosters physical health but also promotes psychological and social well-being as contributory factors in nation-building.

“Bilang chairperson po ng Senate Committee on Sports, nakatataba ng puso para sa akin ang maging parte ng ating pagtitipon ngayong araw at makita ang sari-saring talento ng ating mga kabataang atleta dito sa pagbubukas ng 2023 Batang Pinoy at Philippine National Games,” Go expressed.

“Sa palarong ito, hindi lang pisikal na lakas ang ating masasaksihan mula sa mga atleta kundi pati na rin po ang determinasyon at diwa ng pagkakaisa na bumubuklod sa ating lahat bilang isang bansa,” he cited.

Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, linked sports development to his broader advocacy against illegal drugs.

According to the senator, by providing young people with constructive and engaging activities, sports can offer a positive pathway that diverts them from harmful influences.

“Ayaw ko pong masayang ‘yung inumpisahan ni dating Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte na labanan ang iligal na droga. Get into sports, stay away from drugs and to keep us healthy and fit. Kapag tayo po ay fit, healthy po tayo. Kapag tayo po ay healthy, hahaba po ang ating buhay. Pangalagaan po natin ang kalusugan ng bawat isa dahil katumbas po yan ng buhay ng bawat Pilipino,” he encouraged.