Kukkiwon, the World Taekwondo Headquarters, and the World University Taekwondo Federation (WUTF) bestowed honorary blackbelt titles to both President Rodrigo Duterte and Special Assistant to the President (SAP) Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go during their official visit to South Korea on June 5.
With an invitation by the World University Taekwondo Federation (WUTF) Governor Kim Seong Tae, President Rodrigo Duterte was bestowed with an Honorary 9th Dan Blackbelt certificate while Go was given an Honorary 5th Dan Blackbelt certificate and uniform at Kukkiwon, National Taekwondo Insitute in Seoul.
The Secretary attended the ceremony at the taekwondo headquarters and delivered a short message on how he is honored to receive such honor in front of notable officials of the institution.
The Secretary also mentioned in his talk how the government is supporting sports, noting that the support includes individual sports such as Taekwondo which is a growing sport in the Philippines.
Sec. Go said that taekwondo teaches the art of excellence and perfection, adding that it also teaches self-discipline noting that it brings stability and system.
“Back in the Philippines, I have always advocated to the Filipino youth the use and practice of sports as an alternative to vices and other unproductive pursuits,” Sec. Go said in his speech. “When you have discipline, you are better able to handle challenges and obstacles.”
Sports is currently is being advicated by Go as one of the administration’s tool to fight the President’s 3-point campaign against illegal drugs, corruption and criminality.
Previous recipients of Honorary Dan Blackbelts include former US President Barrack Obama and Russian President Vladimir Putin. The two were given Honorary 9th Dan Blackbelt certificates. (PCOO)
