CdO declares Duterte, Bong Go as adopted sons

Former president Rodrigo Duterte and Sen. Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go. Photo from Bong Go Fb page

By Javier Joe Ismael

THE city government of Cagayan de Oro on Thursday, March 23, declared former president Rodrigo Duterte and Sen. Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go as adopted sons of the city.

The city government acknowledged Go's notable contributions, not only to the city but to the nation as a whole.

In the same event, the city government recognized former president Duterte as its adopted son, highlighting his legacy programs that have significantly contributed to the progress of the country during his term, such as the Build, Build, Build program and his war against illegal drugs.

"With due respect to all of you, we always hear from our countrymen thanking former president (Rodrigo) Duterte, and me. Please do not take it against us, but you don't have to thank us. As what former president Duterte have repeatedly said in the past: 'this is our job'," said Go during his speech at Limketkai Luxe Hotel on Thursday, March 23.

"Instead, we should be the ones who should thank you because you gave us the opportunity to serve all of you. Thank you very much for your support then for the former president. His administration would have not succeeded if not for your support, especially from those from Mindanao," he added.

By virtue of Sangguniang Panlungsod Resolution 14480 presented by City Mayor Rolando "Klarex" Uy, the adoption of Go as the son of the city was in recognition of his unwavering efforts in serving the city and its constituents.

As cited, the senator was instrumental in implementing various programs and projects that benefited the city and the entire Mindanao. Among these were the infrastructure projects, the establishment of health facilities, and the provision of aid and assistance to those affected by disasters and emergencies.

Go has also been persistent in supporting residents of the city who are in crisis situations, particularly those affected by disasters. For this reason, the senator expressed his commitment that he will remain determined in bringing much-needed assistance to ensure residents get back on their feet.

The resolution also states, "Senator Bong Go has invariably supported the programs and projects of the City Government aimed at serving and providing quality health services to its poor constituents."

The senator initiated the Malasakit Centers program which was institutionalized under Republic Act 11463, principally sponsored and authored by Go. The said measure has already established 156 operational centers, including those at Northern Mindanao Medical Center and JR Borja General Hospital located in the city.

A brainchild of Go, the Malasakit Center brings together all concerned agencies under one roof to provide poor and indigent patients with convenient access to available medical assistance programs to help reduce their medical expenses to the lowest amount possible.