SENATOR Christopher ‘Bong’ Go highlighted the crucial role of sports in promoting youth development as guest speaker during the 2nd Annual Tertiary Sports Leaders Congress.

The event, attended by several Commission on Higher Education Regional Directors, as well as 185 athletic directors and coordinators from higher education institutions across all regions, served as a platform to discuss the future of sports leadership in the country.

Under the theme Elevating Sports Excellence: Chartering the Future of Sports Leadership, Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports, discussed his legislative efforts and the integral role that sports play in molding future leaders while steering the youth away from vices towards a healthier, more productive lifestyle.

“Get into sports, stay away from drugs to keep us healthy and fit — ito po ang lagi kong sinasabi sa mga kabataan, and it is not just a motto—it is a guiding principle that can lead our youth towards healthier, more fulfilling lives,” said the senator.

Go also highlighted the significant progress made in enhancing sports facilities and programs in the Philippines.

He proudly referenced the enactment of Republic Act No. 11470, which established the National Academy of Sports at New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac that he authored and co-sponsored.

The NAS, a government-run educational institution, offers a secondary education program integrated with a unique sports curriculum crafted in collaboration with the Department of Education and the Philippine Sports Commission.

“This institution is dedicated to providing our student-athletes with top-notch facilities and a curriculum that integrates academic excellence with sports training,” stated Go.

Further advocating for the development of sports, Go continues to champion Senate Bill No. 2514 or the proposed Philippine National Games Act, which he authored and sponsored.