Sen. Christopher “Bong” Go chose to mark his birthday on Saturday, June 14, by spending it with local fishermen in Davao del Norte, reaffirming his commitment to serve the country’s grassroots sectors, especially those who work tirelessly to help attain food security.
In a heartfelt gathering by the sea, Go joined the fisherfolk in a boodle fight using their freshly caught seafood — which he personally purchased to support their livelihood. The fish were grilled and served for a shared meal, bringing joy and a sense of unity to the simple yet meaningful celebration.
“Sa lahat po ng bumati, maraming salamat po. God bless us all. Ako po ay nagpapasalamat sa mga kababayan natin para sa inyong patuloy na suporta. Ako’y magseserbisyo sa inyo sa abot ng aking makakaya,” said Go.
“Dito ko na lang po ako nag-celebrate dahil hindi talaga ako nagpa-party. Si dating pangulong Duterte, kahit mayor pa siya noon, hindi siya nagpa-party. Nagpapakain siya dati doon sa may Smokey Mountain o kaya sa mga cancer patients, ako naman napili ko sa mga mangingisda natin at mga pamilya nila,” he shared further.
Go also took the opportunity to discuss key legislative measures aimed at improving the lives of fisherfolk and rural communities. He is one of the authors of Republic Act No. 11901, or the Agriculture, Fisheries, and Rural Development Financing Enhancement Act of 2022, which strengthened the financial ecosystem supporting agriculture, fisheries, and rural development. The law offers improved access to credit for rural communities, particularly benefiting farmers, fisherfolk, and agri-based workers to enhance their well-being, competitiveness, and productivity.
Moreover, Go served as a co-sponsor and co-author of RA 11953, also known as the New Agrarian Emancipation Act, which condones loans incurred by agrarian reform beneficiaries — including interest, penalties, and surcharges. This provides significant financial relief to farmers, enabling them to focus on boosting productivity and improving their livelihoods.
The senator emphasized the crucial role of farmers and fisherfolk in providing food to Filipino households. He reiterated his advocacy that no Filipino should go to bed hungry and vowed to continue supporting initiatives that uplift the agricultural and fisheries sectors.
“Asahan ninyo, bukas ang opisina ko para sa inyo. Patuloy tayong magsusulong ng mga programang makatutulong sa inyong kabuhayan at kapakanan. Sikapin nating walang Pilipino ang magugutom,” he added.
Go, known as Mr. Malasakit, has been known for championing grassroots initiatives and pro-poor legislation. His birthday celebration became a meaningful reflection of his values — one centered on humility, service, and a deep gratitude for the hardworking Filipinos who nourish the nation.
“Sa ating mga mangingisda dito sa Davao del Norte, mahalaga kayo sa ating lipunan. Kaya patuloy po akong maglilingkod at magsusulong ng mga proyektong makakatulong sa inyong kabuhayan at kalusugan. Magseserbisyo ako sa inyo sa abot ng aking makakaya dahil yan ang aking bisyo — ang magserbisyo,” Go reassured the residents.
On the same day, Go also helped fire victims in Davao City.
