Bong Go hits back at critics after fitness gym drew flak over campaign ballers

Special Assistant to the President Christopher “Bong” Go hit back at “trolls” after a fitness gym drew criticism from members and netizens for distributing baller bands encouraging him to run for senator in the 2019 midterm elections.

Go said he had no hand in the campaign by Anytime Fitness’ El Pueblo Real branch in Ortigas even as he acknowledged the support of private groups and individuals.

This, even as he reiterated that he has no plans yet of seeking an elective post.

“Nagpapasalamat po ako sa mga grupo at mga taong ito. Pero tulad po ng sinasabi ko, malayo pa po sa isip ko ang tumakbo. Ang pag serbisyo po muna sa bayan ang ginagawa natin,” Go said in a text message on Wednesday.

Go then slammed those who criticized the gym’s pledge to support him.

“Sa mga walang magawa at sa mga naiingit, respetuhin na lang ang opinyon at mga kagustuhan ng ibang tao. Huwag nyo na lang idaan sa trolls nyo ang paninira na ginagawa nyo,” he said.

“Pero syempre hindi ko din mapipigilan. Demokrasya pa din kasi tayo.”

The Anytime Fitness El Pueblo Real branch in Ortigas has apologized following the public uproar and said it "was not our intention to alienate or isolate any part of our community or to make anyone feel unwelcome in our home."

A netizen noted how reviews for the gym went down after the uproar over the post, which was later taken down.

Anytime Fitness Philippines Country Manager Ryan Cheal said the chain came to an agreement with their El Pueblo branch "that this is not in keeping with the Anytime Fitness brand, which has no affiliation to any platform, political or otherwise."

"The club is taking responsibility for this lapse in judgement," he said.

"We are a health and wellness platform and have always advocated for inclusivity, health, and diversity. And as such, should not use our platform for political purposes."

Cheal said that the issue is under review by the management. —KBK, GMA News