Photo credit: Bong Go

Senator Christopher "Bong" Go took to the stage at the PDP General Assembly in Davao City on September 20 to share his thoughts on the lasting impact of former President Rodrigo Duterte's leadership. With a heartfelt message, he emphasized that it is ultimately the Filipino people who will evaluate Duterte's contributions to the country.

"Ang Pilipino na po ang huhusga pagdating ng panahon," Go declared passionately, reminding everyone that future generations will assess the positive changes brought about during Duterte’s presidency. This reflection highlights a belief that the true measure of Duterte's legacy will unfold over time.

Go pointed out that the real beneficiaries of Duterte's policies and reforms are the youth and future generations. "Ang nakinabang po ay kinabukasan po ng ating bayan. Kayo na po ang humusga pagdating ng panahon ng ginawa ni tatay Digong na para po sa kinabukasan ng ating mga anak," he said. This sentiment resonated with many in the audience, as it underscored the hope for a brighter future built on the foundations laid by the former president.

He didn’t shy away from acknowledging the sacrifices that came with Duterte's administration. "Hindi po mababayaran ng kahit ano po ang sakripisyong ginawa niya para sa ating bayan," Go stated, urging citizens to reflect on the changes made in their lives because of Duterte's efforts. As the next elections approach, he encouraged voters to assess the effectiveness of Duterte's work and the impacts it has had on ordinary Filipinos.

Go reminisced about the early days of Duterte’s political journey, recalling how few supporters there were back in 2014. "Noong 2014, kakaunti pa lang ang sumasama, umiikot sa atin kasama si then mayor Rodrigo Duterte," he recalled, expressing gratitude for those who have remained loyal through thick and thin. "Palakpakan po natin ang ating tatay Digong, President Duterte. Salamat," he said, highlighting that the success of Duterte's administration would not have been possible without the unwavering support of the people.

Looking ahead, Go reaffirmed his commitment to continue Duterte’s legacy, which he characterized as one marked by courage and compassion for the Filipino people. "Gusto po naming ipagpatuloy ‘yung gobyernong may tapang at pagmamalasakit sa kapwa Pilipino," he emphasized, signaling his dedication to serving with the same values that defined Duterte's presidency.

Despite facing criticism, Go remains optimistic about Duterte's legacy of honest and dedicated service. "Nasa atin po ang katotohanan at nasa atin po ‘yung tapat na panunungkulan, ‘yung tatak Duterte na panunungkulan," he asserted, promising to carry forward this commitment in his own service.

In closing, Go expressed his openness to the public and reiterated his readiness to serve. "Ako naman, bukas ang aking opisina para sa inyong lahat. Sanay naman po ako sa trabaho," he assured, reflecting his approachability and commitment to the Filipino people.

He also recognized the importance of divine guidance in his endeavors, saying, "God willing, Inshallah, kung gusto pa ni Allah, ng Panginoon na makapagserbisyo pa kami, ipagpatuloy po natin ang gobyernong may tapang at malasakit sa kapwa Pilipino."

As he wrapped up his speech, Go formally accepted his nomination from the PDP-Laban party for the upcoming senatorial elections. "Tinatanggap ko po ang nominasyon ng PDP. At asahan n’yo, magseserbisyo po ako sa inyo sa abot ng aking makakaya," he promised, assuring the audience of his dedication to hard work for the benefit of the Filipino people.

This heartfelt address not only reflected Bong Go’s loyalty to Duterte but also set the stage for the continuing dialogue about the former president's legacy and its implications for the nation’s future.