Marcos orders release of additional fund for Pinoy athletes competing in Olympics

President Marcos has ordered Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin to release additional funds to the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) for the participation of Filipino athletes to the upcoming Olympics.

Marcos made the directive during the send-off ceremony for national athletes representing the country in the Paris Olympics

"I direct the Office of the Executive Secretary to release to the Philippine Sports Commission [additional] funds to help support the preparation and participation of our athletes in these upcoming Olympics," Marcos said in his speech.

The President said the government has been trying to support the sports movement in the Philippines by granting P52 million for the preparation, training, and participation of Filipino athletes in the 2024 Paris Olympics.

He added that for this year alone, P1.156 billion, through the PSC, has funded the aspirations and future of Filipino athletes.

He also cited the rehabilitation of the country's major sports facilities such as the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex and the PhilSports Complex "to give our youth a fitting stage to improve and to showcase their talents."

"And, presently, we are finishing the National Academy of Sports System in Tarlac and the Philippine Sports Training Center in Bataan to train, to hone, and to develop present and aspiring athletes for future competitions," Marcos said.

"All of these demonstrate this commitment that we have to the advancement of Filipino athletes by equipping them with the tools and encouragement to realize their full potential," Marcos added.

The Chief Executive also encouraged all Filipinos to rally behind the national athletes.

"I encourage all Filipinos to rally behind our athletes as they pursue and compete in the 2024 Paris Olympics," he said.

"After all, we are not chasing medals; we are sprinting towards making history, bringing honor to our country, and inspiring us all," he added.

Marcos led the send-off ceremony for nine of the 15 athletes representing the Philippines in the Paris Olympics on Monday night, June 21.

The event also highlights the Philippines' 100 years of participation in the Olympic Games, marking a century of sporting excellence and international representation.

The athletes who qualified for the Paris Olympics are pole vaulter Ernest John ‘EJ’ Obiena; gymnasts Carlos Yulo, Aleah Finnegan, Levi Ruivivar and Emma Malabuyo; boxers Aira Villegas, Nesthy Petecio, Hergie Bacyadan, Eumir Marcial and Carlo Paalam; rower Joanie Delgaco; weightlifters Vanessa Sarno, John Ceniza and Elreen Ando; and fencer Sam Catantan.