'Bong' Go asks youth leaders to back President Duterte's agenda

DAVAO CITY – The former top aide of President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday asked youth leaders to strongly support the agenda of the administration "because these are geared towards a safe and progressive nation."

“We are working for a safe and prosperous nation for the future that you deserve,” said Go, former Special Assistant to the President, who resigned when he decided to become a Senate aspirant.

Speaking before the 150 youth leaders at the 12th National Youth Parliament on Monday at the Waterfront Hotel here, Go said the youth sector plays a crucial role in nation building.

“Ang kabataan ay ang pag-asa ng bayan (The youth are the hope of the nation),” Go said, as he urged them to help President Rodrigo Duterte in his campaign against illegal drugs, corruption, and criminality.

The National Youth Parliament is a convergence of prominent youth leaders selected by National Youth Commission (NYC). The gathering is aimed at crafting legislative policies to guide lawmakers in coming up with laws and programs for the welfare of the youth.

As leaders of the sector, Go said the young people should help drive their peers away from illegal drugs.

“You can also encourage them to undergo rehabilitation,” he added.

If he is lucky to in his Senate bid, Go vowed to help the youth sector through sports development programs, as well as skills and entrepreneurship training.

“I am very glad to see our youth leaders gathered here to acquire the necessary tools, knowledge and skills in advocacy and policy-making. This will certainly be useful in performing your duties as Sangguniang Kabataan leaders,” he said.

In an interview with reporters, Go said he expects the young parliamentarians to pass policies and programs that will benefit the sector and contribute to nation-building.

“Tulong-tulong tayong abutin ang mapayapa at maunlad na Pilipinas (Let us support each other in achieving a peaceful and progressive Philippines),” Go said. (Lilian C Mellejor/PNA)