Go pays tribute to ‘father’ of Olongapo

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT, Philippines — Former special assistant to the president and now senatorial candidate Christopher “Bong” Go said that James Leonard Gordon, considered the “founding father of Olongapo,” had dedicated his life to the service of his fellow Filipinos.

“Although his fruitful and productive life was cut short by an assassin’s bullet many years ago, his deeds and his charity continue to be felt by the people of Olongapo to this day and his legacy of selfless service lives on through his children and grandchildren,” said Go during the commemoration of Gordon’s 52nd death anniversary here last Wednesday.

He also lauded Sen. Richard Gordon for ensuring the continued progress of Subic Bay Freeport after the withdrawal of US forces from its military base by advocating the spirit of volunteerism and instilling discipline, drawing parallels with President Duterte’s success in Davao.

Go said that if he is elected to the Senate, the people of the region could count on him to be an ally in pushing for more development in the freeport.

“If I ever get elected as senator I will help Subic through the amendment of Republic Act 7227, the law that created the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and Clark. I will support the area expansion of the free port, more incentives to Olongapo, Bataan and Zambales,” Go added.

The proposed Senate bill seeks to increase the area of the Clark Special Economic Zone from the current 4,400 hectares to 35,400 hectares and allow Subic and Clark authorities to draft master plans for their expansion, including areas in San Antonio, San Marcelino, Subic and Castillejos in Zambales, as well as in Olongapo City and Hermosa in Bataan.