Marcos announces historic incentives for Palarong Pambansa medalists
MANILA, Philippines — For the first time in the storied history of the Palarong Pambansa, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) has earmarked P10 million in cash incentives for medal winners, following the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to revitalize the national grassroots sports program.President Marcos unveiled the groundbreaking initiative on Sunday during the opening ceremony of the 66th Palarong Pambansa, to be implemented by the PSC in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd), organizer of the Games that showcase the finest student-athletes from elementary and secondary divisions nationwide."I am happy to announce to you that for the first time, the Philippine Sports Commission will allocate incentives for the medalists of regular sports and para games in recognition of your skill," said President Marcos in a video message."I know that you will do your best. You will learn a lot from these Games that you can take with you wherever you go. This is where you will learn perseverance, respect, discipline, and compassion for others," added Marcos.Under the program, gold medalists will receive P5,000, silver medalists P3,000, and bronze medalists P2,000, a move designed to sustain the training and athletic development of the country’s young sports heroes while easing the financial sacrifices made by their families."To help with the athlete's training and the expenses of Dad and Mom. This is just a small amount considering the large number of participants and winners in the Palarong Pambansa. This is just a sincere gesture from our government that comes from the heart," said PSC Chairman Patrick Gregorio.The PSC emphasized that the program is not only about financial support but also about sending a powerful message that the government stands firmly behind its young athletes from the very beginning of their journey.“These incentives will likewise help motivate our young student-athletes to strive harder and to train more diligently. This is help to reach their dreams," said Gregorio.With the help of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), headed by Chairman Al Tengco, the PSC will ensure that the P10 million incentive fund reaches the Palaro medalists and becomes a catalyst for deeper investment in grassroots sports."We are able to do all of this with the help of PAGCOR," said Gregorio.While modest relative to the number of participants and winners across all events, the PSC underscored that this is a meaningful first step, a clear signal that the government is committed to standing behind its young champions from the grassroots level all the way to the world stage."Even now, we salute you. You are the next generation of Filipino athletes who will bring great honor and glory to our country,’’ Department of Education Secretary Sonny Angara told the athletes.The 66th edition of the Palarong Pambansa, the country’s premier showcase of student-athlete talent, officially opened Sunday at the Patin-ay Sports Complex here.More than 13,000 student-athletes are set to compete across 35 sports until May 31, including four para sports (athletics, bocce, goalball, swimming), three demonstration sports (karatedo, kickboxing, soft tennis), and four exhibition sports (arnis, muay thai, sitting volleyball, table tennis)."Sports is close to our President's heart. A large budget has been allocated for the Palaro this year, from building school sports, and the PSC is also helping in fixing sports facilities. All of that is by order of our beloved President," said Angara.Gregorio underscored that the victories of the youth are victories for the nation, affirming that this initiative is anchored on the PSC’s vision for Philippine sports based on the directive of President Marcos to strengthen grassroots sports:From Grassroots (Palaro) to Gold (Olympics). From Gold (medals) to Greatness (legacy and service to the nation).
