For the first time in the history of the Palarong Pambansa, student-athletes who secure podium finishes will receive cash incentives from the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. announced.
The Chief Executive shared the historic development in a video message during the grand opening ceremony of the national youth games in Agusan del Sur on Sunday, May 24.
“Masaya akong ibalita sa inyo, sa kauna-unahang pagkakataon, maglalaan ang Philippine Sports Commission ng mga incentive para sa mga medalista sa regular sports at paragames bilang pagkilala sa inyong husay (I am happy to inform you that, for the very first time, the Philippine Sports Commission will allocate incentives for medalists in regular sports and paragames in recognition of your skill),” Marcos said.
Lauding the student-athletes, the President emphasized that they represent more than just their schools and regions, carrying instead the shared dreams and inspirations of the Filipino youth.
“Kaya para sa inyo at sa iba pang batang atleta, patuloy ang pamahalaan sa pagsuporta sa inyong pagsasanay sa larangan ng palakasan (So for you and other young athletes, the government will continue to support your training in the field of sports),” Marcos added, reaffirming the state’s commitment to grassroots sports development.
While pushing them to excel, the President reminded the competitors to find joy in the experience, noting that the true rewards of the Palaro extend far beyond the playing field.
“Alam ko na gagawin ninyo ang lahat ng inyong makakaya, ngunit huwag ninyong kalimutan, mag-enjoy na rin. Marami kayong matutuhan sa Palarong ito na madadala ninyo kahit saan man kayo magpunta. Dito ninyo matututunan ang disiplina, tiyaga, respeto, at malasakit sa kapwa (I know you will do everything you can, but do not forget to also enjoy. You will learn many things from this Palaro that you can bring wherever you go. Here you will learn discipline, perseverance, respect, and compassion for others),” he said.
In a separate speech delivered on his behalf by Special Assistant to the President Antonio Lagdameo, the Chief Executive reminded the delegation to uphold sportsmanship and mutual respect throughout the multi-sport event.
“Lumaban nang may dangal at igalang ang kapwa ninyong atleta (Fight with honor and respect your fellow athletes),” Marcos urged.
He offered distinct pieces of advice for both the victors and the defeated, encouraging champions to remain grounded and urging others to view setbacks as constructive milestones.
“Sa mga mananalo, nawa’y dalhin ninyo ang medalya nang may kababaang-loob. Maging inspirasyon ninyo ang pagkapanalo para sa mga susunod pang laban (To the winners, may you carry your medals with humility. Let your victory inspire you for future battles),” the President said.
“Sa mga hindi mananalo sa Palarong ito, huwag kayong mawalan ng pag-asa. Ang bawat pagkatalo ay hindi wakas, kundi isang hakbang upang lalo pang tumatag, matuto, at magtagumpay (To those who will not win in this Palaro, do not lose hope. Every defeat is not the end, but a step to become stronger, to learn, and to succeed),” he added.
Closing his message, the Chief Executive assured the young competitors that the government, alongside their families, teachers, and coaches, stands firmly behind them in their athletic journeys.