Governor Mel Go is a distinguished public servant, visionary entrepreneur, and devoted family man whose life and leadership embody integrity, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to the progress and welfare of Marinduque.
Born in Boac and now residing in Torrijos, he is the eldest son of Cleto Go Yeesan, a respected businessman, and Marta Jinang Go, a former Barangay Captain, a Community and Church advocate who balanced entrepreneurship with public service. Raised in a family deeply rooted in the values of hard work, compassion, and civic duty, he grew up in an environment where principles and discipline were non-negotiable foundations. His upbringing in a household that valued agriculture, business, and public service profoundly shaped his worldview and leadership style.
Governor Go completed his elementary education at the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Boac, pursued secondary education at UNO High School in Tondo, Manila, and later studied Industrial Engineering from Adamson University. Even as a young man, he demonstrated exceptional entrepreneurial spirit, managing GMJ Lumber, Hardware and Merchandise, their family-owned business, at the early age of 13. Eventually, he founded Sargasso Construction and Development Corporation, building a reputation for excellence, innovation, and sound fiscal management.
Throughout his professional journey, Go has successfully balanced business and public service. His work as a World Bank project contractor and site developer for major infrastructure such as the Iloilo Business Park and Cavitex Expressway demonstrated his capacity to deliver impactful, large-scale projects that drive economic growth.
His entry into public service was inspired by a sincere desire to serve and uplift the lives of his fellow Marinduqueños. Elected as Provincial Board Member for two terms and twice garnering the highest votes as number one or senior board member of the province, he championed proactive legislation in education, healthcare, infrastructure, economic development, environmental protection, and good governance. During this time, he stood firmly with his people in the historic fight for justice and accountability following the Marcopper mining disaster, the worst environmental tragedy in Philippine history. This advocacy cemented his lifelong commitment to environmental stewardship and the protection of Marinduque’s natural heritage.
He also serves as one of the 13 Board of Trustees and Directors of the Volunteers Against Crime & Corruption, demonstrating his consistent advocacy for ethical governance and the protection of the public’s welfare.
As Governor, he has articulated and embodied a leadership approach anchored on transparency, accountability, and participative governance. Guided by his vision “Go Forward Marinduque,” he believes that inclusive and collaborative decision-making is essential to genuine progress. His administration focuses on enhancing healthcare services, strengthening education, modernizing infrastructure, expanding livelihood opportunities, preserving cultural heritage, and ensuring that government resources are used wisely and equitably.
Beyond his public achievements, Governor Go is also a dedicated family man, blessed with the love and support of his wife, Sylvia Tanya Huber Go, a businesswoman, and with eight children who inspire his dedication to serve with purpose. His personal interests such as reading books on entrepreneurship and lifelong learning reflect his relentless pursuit of growth and innovation.
Mel Go’s story is a testament to what purposeful, principled leadership can accomplish: a leadership shaped by deep family roots, refined by decades of entrepreneurial and public service experience, and driven by an unshakable faith in the collective strength of the Marinduqueño people. Today, he stands as a beacon of hope and progress proving that with vision, integrity, and determination, Marinduque can rise to its fullest potential and build a future anchored in dignity, prosperity, and shared purpose. -- Marinduquenews.com
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