MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Christopher “Bong” Go, the chair of the Senate Committee on Sports, sponsored the Senate resolution he had earlier filed commending and congratulating Davemark “Dave” Apolinario for winning the International Boxing Organization flyweight crown at the International Convention Centre in East London, South Africa.
In his sponsorship speech on Monday, Go extended his utmost praise to Apolinario for exemplifying the unrelenting Filipino spirit of competitiveness during his match.
“He dominated early on in the opening round after delivering a huge left straight punch, scoring a first-round stoppage against his South African foe, Gideon Butlehezi, with an exclamation point,” said Go.
“His remarkable win paved the way for him claiming his first world title after he captured the IBO flyweight title and improving his unbeaten boxing record of 17 wins, 0 defeats, with 12 knockouts,” he added.
Go also remarked that the 23-year-old from Sarangani province has proven to be an indomitable boxer, as he is “now recognized as one of the promising fighters our country has produced.”
It is for this reason, according to Go, that he sought to give due distinction and recognition for the impeccable performance of Apolinario, which “will inspire many Filipino athletes to soar to greater heights in their respective fields of sport.”
Go said successes delivered by Filipino athletes like Apolinario are truly heartwarming as they were achieved despite the challenges brought by the pandemic.
“Ang mga ganitong karangalan ay tunay ngang nakakataba ng puso. Dahil sa kabila ng krisis na ating kinakaharap dulot ng pandemya, ang ating mga Pilipinong atleta ay namayagpag sa mundo ng palakasan at nagbigay ng malaking inspirasyon sa ating bayan,” said Go.
The senator then assured Filipinos that he will continue to push for the promotion and advancement of sports development programs in the country.
“Ako po ay kaisa ng bawat Pilipino sa pagsusuporta at pagpupugay sa ating mga atleta na nag bigay karangalan sa ating bansa,” he reaffirmed.