Amid the challenges faced by Gilas Pilipinas in the FIBA World Cup, Senator Christopher “Bong Go,” said he remains optimistic that Filipino athletes will still be able to compete and win in international competitions in the future.
Sen. Christopher "Bong" Go (Senate PRIB Photo)
Go, chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports, said he is redirecting his focus towards a diversified approach to sports development with the end goal of preparing the country for the 2024 Paris Olympics and other future competitions.
That is why, despite the current setback, the senator urged Filipinos to maintain a positive outlook and rally behind their athletes.
“Hindi lang naman po sa basketball ang talento ng Pilipino (Filipinos are not just talented in basketball),” Go said, acknowledging the country's recent successes in other sports like boxing and athletics.
The lawmaker said a comprehensive support from both the government and the private sector is needed to nurture Filipino talent.
“Looking forward tayo sa 2024 Olympics na manalo po tayo hindi lang po sa basketball, sa boxing, at iba pang athletics (We are looking forward to winning the 2024 Olympics not only in basketball, but also in boxing and other athletics),” Go stated.
Pole vaulter EJ Obiena, he noted, is the first Filipino to qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics. He achieved this milestone by clearing the Olympic standard of 5.82 meters at the Bauhaus Galan event in Stockholm, Sweden.
Earlier, Go also extended his heartfelt congratulations to weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz for her historic achievement in the Women's 55kg weightlifting category at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. Diaz's victory marked the country’s first-ever Olympic gold medal.
"Sila ay tunay ngang inspirasyon sa bawat Pilipino na sa kabila ng kahit anong bigat ng kanilang pinapasan sa buhay kapag nagpakita ng determinasyon at pusong manalo ay makakamtan nito sa ating inaasam na tagumpay (They are true inspiration for each Filipino, that despite the hardships in life, if there is determination and a heart to win, you will achieve the victory)," said Go.