The Datu Bago Awards are the highest honor bestowed by the Davao City Government on persons who have greatly contributed to the development of the city.
"Congratulations to former President Rodrigo Duterte for becoming the only "Datu Bago 2024" awardee. On March 8, 2024, during a distribution of aid to typhoon victims in Malita, Davao Occidental, Go stated that he has been an OIC (Office in Charge) vice mayor, elected mayor, congressman, three-term mayor, vice mayor, and mayor for 36 years.
He emphasized Duterte's unwavering commitment and service to the Dabawenyos.
"For thirty-six years, or about half of his life, he has dedicated himself to the service of Davao City. It is long overdue. And he is the most deserving Dabawenyo to receive this prize," he said.
Go described the former president as his mentor in life and public service.
Go began working as Duterte's personal assistant in 1998, when he was mayor of Davao City. Before being elected to the Senate, he worked as a Special Assistant to the President from June 30, 2018 until October 15, 2018.
Councilor Pilar Braga, chair of the Datu Bago Awardees Organization (DBAO), highlighted that Duterte's award is based on his accomplishments in Davao.
"The group believes that now is the greatest time for Dabawenyos to express their appreciation and gratitude to our former president. However, his medal is based primarily on his contributions in Davao City. He received a bonus as president. Imagine that he is a Davao City native who climbed to become mayor, deputy mayor, congressman, and the only Dabawenyo and Mindanaoan to become president of the Republic of the Philippines," she remarked.
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