MANILA, Philippines — Former special assistant to the president Christopher “Bong” Go jumped into the Magic 12 in the 2019 senatorial race, landing in 5th to 6th place.

In the Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey conducted from Jan. 23-26, Go made a huge jump from his 15th-16th place ranking in the December 2018 SWS survey to secure a place well within the winning circle, tied with re-electionist Sen. Sonny Angara.

Go expressed gratitude to the people for their trust and confidence in his capability to serve the nation as a legislator as he vowed to work even harder to present his advocacies to the Filipino people.

“It’s heartwarming to realize you trust my capability and sincerity to serve the country. May this serve as inspiration for us to work harder in delivering to our countrymen the programs we wish to push forward for the benefit and prosperity of every Filipino,” Go said.

“I’d like to change the mindset of people that a simple provincial man working as a staff, unpopular, not an actor, not from a family of politicians can dream of serving others in higher capacity,” he added.

He also thanked his mentor, President Duterte, for endorsing his candidacy. In his recent sorties, the President has vouched for the character and integrity of his former top aide, stressing that Go is an “extremely honest” man and a dedicated public servant.

“It helped a lot that I got endorsed by President Duterte whom I had served for 20 years and who really knows me well,” he said. “Thank you President Duterte. It only shows our countrymen’s strong belief in the changes you desire.”

But he stressed that his recent rise in the survey means he should work harder and continue the service he is doing.

“This only means we should work harder so we can better serve others. I will go to every corner, to the farthest place and the narrowest alleys just to help those in need most,” he said.

“Just like what I promised you, I will be your bridge to the President, but I also want to be your bridge to real change that can benefit every Filipino,” he added.

Go’s surge in the rating of senatorial candidates came more than a week before the start of the campaign period for national candidates in the 2019 midterm elections.

Grace Poe still top

Retaining the lead position in the SWS survey is Sen. Grace Poe, followed by Sen. Cynthia Villar in 2nd place, former Sen. Lito Lapid in third and Rep. Pia Cayetano in 4th.

Sen. Nancy Binay is in 7th place, while former senators Mar Roxas and Bong Revilla are tied in the 8th-9th place.

Completing the “Magic 12” are Sen. Koko Pimentel (10th), Sen. Bam Aquino (11th) and former senator Jinggoy Estrada.

Go’s legislative agenda prioritizes improved delivery of health services, including the institutionalization of Malasakit Centers across the country.

A Malasakit Center brings together in one room all concerned government agencies such as the Department of Health, Department of Social Welfare and Development, PhilHealth, Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, to make it easier for poor patients to avail themselves of medical and financial assistance from the government.