Go, who identified himself in his manifestation as one of the authors of the measures in the agenda and as Chairperson of the Senate Committees on Sports and on Youth, said he supports citizenship for athletes who have shown allegiance to the Philippines and readiness to represent the country.
"Mr. Chair, as one of the authors of the measures in our agenda, allow me to express my full support for the bills granting Philippine citizenship to Bennie Boatwright III and Matthew James Ramos," Go said.
"Being the Chairperson of the Committees on Sports and on Youth, I firmly believe (in)... athletes who have demonstrated genuine allegiance to the Philippines, an unwavering commitment to excellence, and a clear intention to represent our country on the global stage," he continued.
"Granting deserving individuals Philippine citizenship will not only strengthen our national sports program and enhance our international competitiveness, but will also inspire future generations of Filipino athletes to pursue excellence, discipline, and national pride."
Go first cited Ramos, a Filipino-American wrestler with roots in Pangasinan.
"Mr. Matthew James Ramos, a Filipino-American wrestler who traces his Filipino roots through his father, Crisante Holanday Ramos, a resident of Barangay Poblacion, Basista, Pangasinan. Mr. Ramos has expressed his earnest intention to become a naturalized Filipino citizen to proudly represent the Philippines in international wrestling competitions," Go said.
"His desire to carry the Philippine flag on the global stage reflects not only his personal affinity for his Filipino roots but also his commitment to contribute to the nation's sports development," he added.
Go said Ramos could help raise the country’s standing in wrestling.
"Mr. Chair, wrestling, while still emerging as a mainstream sport locally, has shown increasing promise in recent years. The inclusion of highly skilled athletes, such as Matthew James Ramos, can significantly elevate the Philippines' competitiveness in regional and world-level tournaments."
Turning to Boatwright, Go recalled the player’s impact on the San Miguel Beermen in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA). Boatwright returned to San Miguel in April 2026 as his naturalization process moved forward, according to sports reports.
"And, of course, Mr. Bennie Boatwright III. I’m a PBA fan since 1983, sa Araneta pa and then sa Ultra. Sinusubaybayan ko talaga itong PBA, until now kapag may panahon po. Mr. Bennie Boatwright III, a distinguished professional basketball player who has made considerable contributions to Philippine sports through his participation in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA)," Go said.
"He has demonstrated an immediate and powerful impact upon his joining of the San Miguel Beermen in December 2023 for the PBA Commissioner's Cup. His exceptional skill and leadership were instrumental in leading the Beermen to the championship crown. And, of course, with Alfrancis Chua being the head of the basketball operation of the San Miguel group. Siya po ata naka discover kay Mr. Boatwright."
"Mr. Boatwright’s exceptional skills and professionalism will make him an ideal fit for the team’s growth and development. Three-pointer po ito, magaling sa outside tong si Bennie Boatwright. His presence would unquestionably boost our nation’s competitiveness in upcoming international competitions, while bringing immense pride and honor to the country."
Go also linked Boatwright’s possible naturalization to Gilas Pilipinas’ future needs, citing the team’s 2023 Asian Games gold medal.
"Napakahalaga po nito dahil syempre nagkaka-edad na rin po si Justin Brownlee but tayo po ang defending champions sa Asian Games na nanalo tayo (in) 2023. Sixty-two (62) years natin bago napanalunan muli yung gold sa Asian Games and now we’re the defending champions. So malaking tulong po itong si Bennie Boatwright."
Addressing Boatwright directly, Go said naturalization carries obligations beyond athletic performance.
"To Mr. Boatwright, as you step into this role, we expect you to remain healthy and fit. Being part of the national team is not merely an opportunity; it is a calling that demands commitment, sacrifice, and excellence. Always remember that you have a duty to support and uplift the national team, and that discipline must guide you at all times, both on and off the field. You must ensure that you are consistently in peak playing form, ready to compete at the highest level."
He also reminded Boatwright and Ramos that citizenship comes with a responsibility to the country.
"To Mr. Ramos and Mr. Boatwright, you are entrusted not only with representing your sport but with carrying the pride and aspirations of the nation. This is a privilege which comes with great purpose and responsibility."
"More importantly, your citizenship is not defined solely by your membership in the national team. It is a profound responsibility as a Filipino, one that calls for integrity, dedication, and unwavering service to the country. And you’re a proud Filipino once you’re approved, na po. Looking forward to working with you."
Go ended by urging support for athletes seeking to represent the Philippines.
"Lastly, Mr. Chair, I am confident that with our continued support for our athletes, especially those who aspire to represent us in various sports competitions, our country will become a stronger contender in future international events."
"Maraming salamat, Mr. Chair at sa komite sa pagdinig na ito. Sana po ay maipasa itong kanilang application sa naturalization. Maraming salamat po at congratulations po to Mr. Boatwright and Mr. Ramos. Salamat."