Senator Christopher “Bong” Go joined fellow Davaoeños on Friday, June 27, in witnessing the inaugural ceremony of Davao City’s newly elected officials. Held at the Session Hall of the Sangguniang Panlungsod, the ceremony marked the beginning of a new chapter in the city’s leadership.
Leading those taking their oaths was current Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte as newly elected Vice Mayor of Davao City. He was joined by his mother, Elizabeth Zimmerman Duterte, and sister, Vice President Sara Duterte, who came to personally witness the ceremony and show their support.
Also present were the city’s newly elected councilors from the three districts including First District councilor-elect Rigo Duterte as well as Second District Congressman-elect Omar Duterte and Third District Cong. Isidro Ungab.
Among those who witnessed the ceremony were Senator Go, Sen. Ronald dela Rosa, their fellow DuterTEN senatorial candidates, other allies and city officials.
The event marked a significant moment in Davao’s political history, as it brought together both seasoned and newly elected leaders under one roof—united in their shared commitment to public service. It also served as a symbolic continuation of the Duterte legacy that has long shaped the city’s governance.
For Senator Go, who was seated among the dignitaries, the occasion was especially meaningful. A Davaoeño himself, Go began his government service under former Mayor Rodrigo Duterte and rose through the ranks as his most trusted aide, eventually serving as Special Assistant to the President and later being elected senator.
Go then reflected on his journey and the man who shaped it: “Hindi po ako magna-number one na senador kung hindi po kay Tatay Digong. Maraming salamat po sa pagmamahal. Higit pa sa tatay ang turing ko kay Tatay Digong.”
“Tinatandaan ko palagi ang payo niya sa akin: Gawin lang ang tama at unahin ang interes ng bayan at kapakanan ng kapwa Pilipino lalo na ang mahihirap,” Go added.
Go expressed his continued support for Davao’s development and his alignment with the values of service, integrity, and malasakit that defined the Duterte leadership.
Go also reaffirmed his commitment to supporting leaders who prioritize pro-poor programs and inclusive development. As the proponent of initiatives such as the Malasakit Centers, Super Health Centers, Regional Specialty Centers as well as improved access to healthcare and social services, Go has consistently championed efforts to bring government closer to the people.
“Magkakaiba man tayo ng posisyon pero pare-parehas tayong mga lingkod-bayan. Kaya alam ko na pare-parehas lang din tayo ng hangarin na mabigyan ng magandang kinabukasan ang ating mga kababayan,” he said.
Though former President Duterte was not in attendance, his presence was strongly felt through the people who continue to carry his legacy forward—including his children and long-time allies like Senator Go.
As Davao ushers in a new set of elected leaders, Go expressed confidence that the city remains in good hands.
“Congratulations sa lahat ng mga nanalo. Unahin natin palagi ang interes at kapakanan ng inyong mga nasasakupan nang may tunay na pagmamahal at malasakit sa kapwa,” Go said.
“Being in public service, let us always remember that public office is a public trust. Alagaan natin yung ibinigay na tiwala ng ating mga kababayan. At bilang inyong senador, tutulong ako sa inyo sa abot ng aking makakaya,” he added.