Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman Butch Ramirez thanked President Duterte for his “unrelenting faith and dependable support to the Philippine National Team” that led to the country’s successful participation in the recent 31st Southeast Asian Games in Hanoi, Vietnam.

In his speech during Team Philippines’ courtesy call at the Malacañang Palace Tuesday night, Ramirez said President Duterte’s support “has made this non-hosting participation our best-ever Southeast Asian Games finish of all time.”

“Your unprecedented show of confidence in the talent of the Filipino athletes lent them confidence to dream big, do more and achieve much. Medals were won, records broken, new standards were set all for flag and country!” Ramirez said.

Ramirez recounted an early encounter with President Duterte where the Chief Executive gave him marching orders to take care of the athletes.

“Despite many challenges, especially in this pandemic, the PSC strove to uphold its commitment to our athletes,” Ramirez said.

“And here we are , celebrating yet another achievement won by our national athletes. Their commitment mirrors the trust and support given to them by you Sir and the Filipino people. A promise to give back with pride and honor all the faith that was given to them. A promise delivered.”

One hundred seventy eight medalists were awarded the Order of Lapu-Lapu, the same distinction that was awarded to the 2019 SEAG medalists.

A total of P52 million incentives were awarded to athletes and coaches, with almost P35 million given to the SEA Games medalists.

Under Republic Act No. 10699, otherwise known as the National Athletes and Coaches Incentives and Benefits Act, an athlete is rewarded P300,000 for every individual gold medal won while a silver and bronze are worth P150,000 and P60,000 each.