Senator Christopher “Bong” Go reaffirmed his commitment to education as his Malasakit Team visited scholars from Camarines Norte State College-Abano Campus, Camarines Norte State College-Daet Campus, Mabini Colleges, and Our Lady of Lourdes College Foundation on Wednesday, February 5, at Barangay 5 Covered Court in Daet, Camarines Norte.
The initiative was conducted in partnership with the Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) Tulong Dunong Scholarship Program, which provides financial grants to 206 deserving students, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder their access to quality education.
Go underscored the crucial role of education in shaping the future of the nation. Addressing the scholars via a video message, he remarked, “Education is the foundation of a progressive society. By investing in your knowledge and skills, we are ensuring a stronger and more capable generation that will lead our country toward greater success. Keep striving for excellence because your dreams will pave the way for a better Philippines.”
During the visit, the Malasakit Team, in coordination with Barangay Gahonon Captain Iyah Carranseja, distributed care packages containing snacks, fruits, shirts, fans, pens, and vitamins to the scholars. In line with Go’s advocacy as Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports, basketballs and volleyballs were also provided to encourage a balance between academics and physical well-being.
As Chair of the Senate Committee on Youth, Go remains steadfast in pushing for legislative measures that enhance educational opportunities for Filipino students. Among these efforts is Republic Act No. 12077, or the Student Loan Payment Moratorium During Disasters and Emergencies Act, which he co-sponsored and co-authored. This law provides temporary financial relief for students with outstanding loans during times of crisis, ensuring that education remains uninterrupted despite challenges.
He also co-authored and co-sponsored RA 11510, institutionalizing the Alternative Learning System (ALS) to provide education for underserved students; RA 11984, or the “No Permit, No Exam Prohibition Act,” ensuring that students are not barred from taking exams due to unpaid school fees; RA 12006, or the “Free College Entrance Examinations Act,” which waives entrance exam fees for qualified top students in private higher educational institutions; and RA 11997, or the “Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act,” which increases the teaching supply allowances for public school teachers.
Go further emphasized his support for mental health programs in education, having co-authored and co-sponsored RA 12080, or the Basic Education Mental Health and Well-Being Promotion Act, which institutionalizes mental health programs in schools to address the growing concerns among students. Additionally, he is advocating for Senate Bill No. 2598, or the proposed State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) Mental Health Services Act, which aims to establish Mental Health Offices in SUCs to provide comprehensive support and intervention for students, faculty, and staff.
To further expand access to higher education, Go also filed SBN 1360, which seeks to amend RA 10931, the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act, to broaden the coverage of the tertiary education subsidy.
“Providing quality education to our youth is one of the greatest investments we can make as a nation. By supporting scholars like you, we are building a more capable and empowered society. Remember that through education, you are not only securing your own future but also contributing to the progress of our country,” Go stated.
“Patuloy akong maglilingkod dahil ang serbisyong totoo ay walang pinipiling lugar o panahon. Bisyo ko ang magserbisyo at naniniwala ako na ang serbisyo sa tao ay serbisyo sa Diyos,” he added.
Through his unwavering dedication to education, Go ensures that scholars, especially those in underserved communities, are equipped with the tools and opportunities to achieve their dreams and contribute meaningfully to the country’s future.
