MANILA, Philippines — An adopted son of Calabarzon, Sen. Bong Go led efforts to support college students in Binangonan in Rizal, reaffirmed his dedication to uplifting the youth and ensuring their access to opportunities for a brighter future.
“Despite the challenges, we are here to serve and help the best we can. Don’t lose hope because we are with you in every step you make toward a better future,” Go said.
Go provided food packs, snacks, vitamins, shirts, fans, basketballs, and volleyballs to 2,820 students during the gathering at Ynares Plaza in Barangay Libis. Select recipients were given bicycles, mobile phones, shoes and watch.
As chair of the Senate youth committee, Go collaborated with the provincial government, led by Gov. Nina Ynares, to extend financial support to qualified indigent students.
Republic Act 12077 or the Student Loan Payment Moratorium During Disasters and Emergencies Act, which Go co-sponsored and co-authored provides temporary financial relief for students with outstanding loans during calamities. The law reflects his commitment to protecting the Filipinos’ dignity during crises.
Go also co-authored RA 11510, which institutionalizes the Alternative Learning System to reach underserved students, and RA 12006, or the Free College Entrance Examinations Act, which waives entrance fees for top-performing students.
He was also instrumental in crafting RA 11997 (Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act), which increases teaching supply allowances for public school teachers and RA 11984 (No Permit, No Exam Prohibition Act), which ensures students are not barred from exams due to unpaid school fees.
Go expressed his gratitude to Ynares, Binangonan Mayor Cesar Ynares and several other officials for their dedication to public service and meaningful advocacies.
Ynares lauded Go’s genuine compassion and dedication to helping communities, especially in education and healthcare. She noted that, despite the Christmas rush and traffic conditions, the senator still opted to spend time with the youth in Rizal.
Go has supported several other initiatives in the province, including improvement of the road and drainage systems, construction of health and justice buildings, installation of street lights and rehabilitation of flood control structures, among others.