Go lauds Duterte for bagging award
SEN. Christopher “Bong” Go congratulated former president Rodrigo Duterte for being this year’s sole recipient of the Datu Bago Award, emphasizing the exchief executive’s profound impact on public service, particularly in the development of Mindanao.
The Datu Bago Awards represents the highest accolade by the Davao City government for individuals who have significantly advanced the city’s development.
During an interview on Friday, March 8, after aiding typhoon victims in Malita, Davao Occidental, Go expressed deep admiration for Duterte’s extensive service to Davao City, spanning 36 years.
“Congratulations to former president Rodrigo Duterte for being the lone Datu Bago 2024 awardee. Tatay Digong has served Davao City for 36 years, starting as OIC (office in charge) vice mayor, then as elected mayor, congressman, then, the three-term mayor again, vice mayor, and again as mayor … until he became the president of the country,” he said.
He underscored Duterte’s unparalleled dedication, saying, “Thirty-six years of his life, almost half of his life, he devoted to serving Davao City. It’s long overdue; he is a deserving Dabawenyo to receive this award.”
Go heralded Duterte as an unparalleled figure in his life.
“He is my greatest mentor in life, in public service,” he said.
The senator also highlighted Duterte’s unyielding devotion to the welfare of the Dabawenyo, irrespective of formal recognition.
“With or without recognition, with or without award, I know he loves our countrymen. He loves the Dabawenyo. He will serve even without the award,” he added.
Councilor Pilar Braga, announcing Duterte’s recognition, underscored his transformative role in Davao City, highlighting his tenure as a catalyst for progress, inclusive governance and community empowerment.
Duterte’s legacy, marked by efforts to make Davao City one of the safest and most livable cities in the Philippines, aligns with the award’s values of fostering unity, resilience and progress among its people.
The awards night is scheduled for Wednesday, March 13, at Matina Enclaves, Davao City, with high anticipation for Duterte’s attendance.
This year, the decision to exclusively honor Duterte signifies a pause in the usual nomination process, with plans to consider the current applicants in the next cycle.