On Tuesday, September 5, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, Chairman of the Committee on Sports, took to the Senate floor to extend his heartfelt congratulations to the Filipino bowlers for their historic win at the 21st Asian Youth Tenpin Bowling Championships, which took place on July 12 in Bangkok, Thailand.
The Senate recently adopted Senate Resolution No. 711, filed by Go himself on August 1, to officially commend and congratulate the Filipino bowlers for their outstanding achievements. The resolution highlights the importance of sports in fostering self-discipline, teamwork, and excellence, as mandated by Article XIV, Section 19 of the Philippine Constitution.
In his sponsorship speech, Go emphasized the significance of the victory, stating, “The Philippine Bowlers team achieved an extraordinary feat as they have emerged victorious by capturing the overall championship for the first time.”
He specifically acknowledged Artegal Barrientos for his remarkable victory in the boys’ masters division. Barrientos, along with Zach Ramin, Stephen Luke Diwa, and Marc Dylan Custodio, clinched the championship title in the boys’ division.
“My gratitude goes to the coaches, mentors, and the entire support staff who have played an instrumental role in molding our outstanding athletes,” said Go.
“Kayong lahat po ay simbolo ng lakas at isang malaking inspirasyon sa ating mga kababayan,” he added.
He assured that he would continue to support sports development programs aimed at promoting the welfare of Filipino athletes.
For the first time in history, the Filipino youth bowling squad secured the top spot in the competition, winning two out of four gold medals available. Barrientos clinched a decisive victory against Australia’s Blake Walsh in the final round of the boys’ masters category.
Additionally, the team managed to erase a 209-pin shortfall to capture their inaugural gold in the boys’ team of four category, a feat not achieved since 1981. The competition saw participation from 17 nations, featuring strong contenders from countries like Korea, Singapore, and Malaysia.
Go concluded his speech by thanking everyone for their sacrifices that brought honor to the Philippines.
“Maraming salamat sa pag-alay po ng inyong sakripisyo para mabigyang dangal ang ating bansa,” he said.
He reiterated his commitment to pursuing sports development initiatives that would further elevate the Philippines’ status in the sporting world.
Go continues his consistent support for the development of youth sports in the country. This support is evident in the legislation he authored and co-sponsored, Republic Act No. 11470, which established the National Academy of Sports (NAS) in 2020.
The NAS, located at the New Clark City Sports Complex in Capas, Tarlac, caters to the physical and mental development of gifted young Filipino athletes, offering a unique, sports-centric curriculum. It marked the start of its first academic year on September 13, 2021.
Building on his commitment to youth sports, Go introduced Senate Bill No. 423 or the Philippine National Games (PNG) Act of 2022. The bill aims to create a comprehensive national grassroots sports program.
