On Friday, June 27, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go’s Malasakit Team visited STI College Cainta in Rizal to support the Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) Tulong Dunong Program (TDP), extending additional assistance to 58 college scholars.
The scholarship distribution and orientation event also reinforces the senator’s long-standing commitment to expanding educational opportunities, especially for underprivileged youth. Go, in his message, reaffirmed through his team the importance of empowering the next generation through sustained investments in accessible education.
“Ang edukasyon ang tulay sa mas magandang kinabukasan,” Go said in a message conveyed by his team. “Kaya patuloy natin itong pinapalakas para matulungan ang kabataan na makamit ang kanilang mga pangarap.”
The CHED-Tulong Dunong Program is a government scholarship initiative designed to assist financially challenged students in completing their college education. Through this, qualified students receive financial support for tuition and other school-related costs, making higher education more inclusive and within reach for all.
Go emphasized that education remains one of his top priorities, citing it as a critical tool for national development. “Our youth are the key to a more progressive and compassionate society,” he said. “Let us continue to invest in their education and well-being so they can contribute meaningfully to our country’s future.”
In addition to the educational aid, the senator’s Malasakit Team also distributed snacks, vitamins, shirts, pens, and sports items such as basketballs and volleyballs, showing support for the holistic development of the scholars.
Go has consistently supported legislative efforts to expand access to education. He is one of the co-authors of Senate Bill No. 2974, or the Expanded Philippine Science High School (PSHS) System Act, which allows up to two PSHS campuses per region (excluding the National Capital Region), institutionalizing the system under the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) for greater equity and quality in STEM education once enacted into law.
He likewise co-authored and co-sponsored Republic Act No. 12077, or the Student Loan Payment Moratorium During Disasters and Emergencies Act, which offers temporary financial relief to borrowers during national or local emergencies.
Go also co-authored Republic Act No. 11984 or the No Permit, No Exam Prohibition Act; RA 11510, institutionalizing the Alternative Learning System (ALS); RA 12006 or the Free College Entrance Examinations Act; and RA 11997 or the Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act, which increases the teaching supply allowance of public school teachers.
He also co-authored Senate Bill No. 1360 to amend RA 10931 (Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act), expanding the coverage of the tertiary education subsidy if enacted into law. Additionally, Go continues to advocate for the passage of his filed SBN 1786, which seeks to establish Mental Health Offices in all public higher education institutions, a move aligned with his call for holistic student support.
“With the help of my fellow legislators, we will also continue to help our future generations, the youth whose voices we heard last elections, and who hold the promise of a brighter future for our country,” said Go in his proclamation speech.