Palarong Pambansa medalists to receive cash incentives

Opening ceremonies of the 66th Palarong Pambansa at Patin-ay Sports Complex in Agusan Del Sur. –DEPED PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines–Medal winners in the 66th Palarong Pambansa will receive cash incentives for the first time in the competition’s history after the Philippine Sports Commission earmarked P10 million for the program upon the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

President Marcos announced the initiative during Sunday’s opening ceremony in Agusan del Sur for the country’s premier grassroots sports event, organized by the Department of Education.

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“Masaya akong ibalita sa inyo na sa unang pagkakataon, maglalaan ang Philippine Sports Commission ng mga incentives para sa mga medalists ng regular sports at para games bilang pagkilala sa inyong husay,” Marcos said in a video message.

(I’m happy to report to you that for the first time, the Philippine Sports Commission has allotted incentives for medalists of regular sports and para games to recognize your achievements.)

Under the program, gold medalists will receive P5,000, silver medalists P3,000, and bronze medalists P2,000.

The PSC said the incentives aim to help support the training and development of student-athletes while also easing some of the financial burden on their families.

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“Upang makatulong sa training ng atleta at sa mga gastos ni Papa at Mama. Maliit na halaga lang po ito sa dami ng lalahok at mananalo sa Palarong Pambansa. This is just a sincere gesture from our government from the heart,” said PSC chairman Patrick Gregorio.

(This is to help the athletes’ parents with their spending on your training. This is just a small amount because of the number of athletes competing and winning in Palarong Pambansa.)

Gregorio added that the incentives are also meant to motivate young athletes to continue pursuing their goals in sports.

The PSC said the incentive fund is being implemented in partnership with DepEd and with support from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation headed by chairman Al Tengco.

More than 13,000 student-athletes from across the country are competing in the weeklong meet, which features 35 sports, including para sports, demonstration sports, and exhibition events.

“Ngayon pa lang saludo kami sa inyo. You are the next generation of Filipino athletes who will bring great honor and glory to our country,” said Education Secretary Sonny Angara.

The 66th edition of the Palarong Pambansa officially opened Sunday at Patin-ay Sports Complex and will run until May 31.