If elected, Go to push for localized peace talks

MANILA, Philippines — Former special assistant to the president Christopher “Bong” Go has vowed to push for localized peace talks as part of the government’s effort to maintain peace and order if he gets elected in the 2019 senatorial elections. 

Go, who keynoted the opening ceremony of the Special Action Forces (SAF) commando course Classes 91 to 99-2018 at the National Capital Region Police Office, said fighting insurgencies would be his top priority in the Senate. 

Under his proposal, Go said that local government officials would be the ones to visit the people in far-flung areas in order to provide basic services and the attention that they deserve.   

Go said those who want to surrender would be given free housing and livelihood.  

He reminded the SAF commando trainees to stay neutral, avoid involving themselves in politics and stay loyal to the Philippine flag. 

Go urged the trainees to think of the reasons why they wanted to serve the people, especially during the difficult part of the training.

He expressed hope that the trainees would find strength in the fact that “you are doing this to protect the Filipino people and your beloved country.”    

SAF acting deputy director Senior Supt. Manuel Abu said almost 2,000 trainees qualified for the Batches 91 to 99-2018, which started yesterday morning.  

“In a few weeks’ time, we will be celebrating holidays with our families and loved ones except, of course, the students who are about to start this training right after this ceremony,” Abu said.