A MOVEMENT called “Ready, Set, Go” was launched Wednesday to persuade Special Assistant to the President Christopher Go to run for senator in the 2019 midterm elections.
The event was organized by the friends of Go and Cabinet members and was held at the Ilustrado Restaurant in Intramuros, Manila.
Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said President Rodrigo Duterte will support Go “to the hilt” if he decides to join the senatorial race in the 2019 midterm elections.
“This was what the President said and I quote verbatim: ‘I will support Bong Go to the hilt’,” Andanar said.
Go’s name as a possible senatorial candidate floated when Duterte, during his speech after leading the destruction of smuggled luxury vehicles on Feb. 6, told him to use the Senate probe on the Philippine Navy’s frigate deal as a “golden opportunity” to become a senator.
Marinduque Rep. Lord Allan Velasco spoke of Go’s remarkable traits beyond his widely-known trademark as the “selfie king” and the President’s long-time aide.
“We know him. He is known by the people as the loyal aide of the President. He is known as Bong Go, the ‘selfie king’,” Velasco said.
“He was recognized by many Filipinos when he faced the [frigate] controversy at the Senate. He came out with a clean name and unscathed dignity.
“But we know him as Bong Go, our loyal friend. We know him for his humility. These traits show that SAP Bong Go is more than just an aide of the President and a selfie king.”
Velasco said Go, if he becomes senator, would push for Duterte’s federalism advocacy.
“We know that his priority once he is in the Senate is to help push President Duterte’s ultimate goal of federalism, which would raise people out of poverty and straighten the path the Philippines is taking,” Velasco said.
“These are the reasons why we encourage SAP Bong Go to be a representative of the people in the Senate.”
Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano said it was time to put in someone in the Senate who is “positive, productive and optimistic” rather than someone sowing discord and stirring unrest.
“It is time to build a nation and not just keep destroying the reputation of our country and our people,” Cayetano said.
Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez also expressed full support for Go and described him as “smart, action-oriented and patriotic.”
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