SENATOR Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go emphasized the importance of unity, cultural pride, and sustained support for grassroots programs as he joined the 109th Founding Anniversary and 6th Banog-Banog Festival of Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon on Tuesday, April 7.
Addressing local officials and residents, Go underscored the role of collective effort in overcoming economic challenges while reaffirming his continued backing for initiatives focused on health, livelihood, and essential services.
“Usa ni ka dakong oportunidad para kanako nga makauban ang tanan sa pagsaulog sa ika-109 nga Founding Anniversary ug ika-unom nga Banog-Banog Festival sa Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon,” he stated, describing his presence as a significant opportunity to join the community in commemorating the occasion.
After thanking Mayor Rogelio Quiño and the local leaders, Go highlighted the deeper significance of the Banog-Banog Festival, pointing to its role in preserving identity and heritage.
“Kining Banog-Banog Festival dili lang usa ka simple nga selebrasyon. It is a celebration of your identity, culture, and shared history. Nagapakita kini kung unsa nato gihatagan og importansya ang atong tradisyon samtang padayon ta nga nagalakaw padulong sa mas mauswagon nga kaugmaon,” he said.
He also recognized the contributions of various sectors in sustaining the municipality’s development. “Samtang atong ginahinomdoman ni nga okasyon, atong giila usab ang kontribusyon sa matag sektor—ang atong mga mag-uuma, mamumuo, negosyante, ug mga alagad sa gobyerno—nga padayon nga naningkamot alang sa kalamboan sa atong lugar,” he added.
Amid rising prices of basic goods, Go stressed the importance of solidarity and mutual support within communities. “Taliwala sa mga hagit, labi na sa padayon nga pagsaka sa presyo sa mga panaliton, mas importante ang bayanihan ug pagmalasakit sa usag usa. When we work together and support one another, we become stronger as a community,” he said.
Reaffirming his role as a legislator, Go assured continued support for programs aimed at improving the welfare of Filipinos, particularly those at the grassroots level.
“As your senator, rest assured that I will continue to support programs and initiatives that will uplift the lives of our fellow Filipinos, especially those in the grassroots. Padayon ang atong pagsuporta sa mga programa nga may kalabotan sa panglawas, panginabuhian, ug uban pang mga serbisyo nga direkta gyud makatabang sa tanan (Magpapatuloy ang ating pagsuporta sa mga programang may kinalaman sa kalusugan, kabuhayan, at iba pang serbisyong direktang makakatulong sa lahat),” he stated.
He also encouraged residents to remain resilient and united. “Sa aking mga kababayan sa Manolo Fortich, continue to take pride in your culture, remain resilient, and keep working together for a better future,” he said.
Likewise, the Go acknowledged key local officials and stakeholders present during the celebration, including Bukidnon Governor Oneil Roque, Vice Governor Clive Quiño, Manolo Fortich Mayor Rogelio Quiño, and Vice Mayor Bojun Bagayas.
He also recognized members of the Sangguniang Bayan, namely Councilors Miguel Demata, Jay Albarece, Rina Quiño, Eddie Dagunlay, Joy Cordovez, Floramae Penasa, Raquel Abales, and Tata Leparto, as well as other partners and stakeholders such as Dr. Fe Jennifer B. Perez.
Closing his message, Go extended his greetings to the people of Manolo Fortich. “Happy 109th Founding Anniversary and 6th Banog-Banog Festival! Daghang salamat sa tanan ug mabuhay ang Manolo Fortich!”
