Kukkiwon, the World Taekwondo headquarters, and the World University Taekwondo Federation (WUTF) bestowed honorary blackbelt titles on President Rodrigo Duterte and his special assistant, Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go, during their official visit to South Korea on June 5.
WUTF Governor Kim Seong Tae invited Duterte and Go, who were given an Honorary 9th Dan Blackbelt certificate and a 5th Dan Blackbelt certificate, respectively.
Go said he was honored to receive the title.
He said taekwondo teaches the art of excellence and perfection and instills self-discipline.
“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,” Go said in his speech. “When you have discipline, you are better able to handle challenges and obstacles.”
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.