On Tuesday, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. welcomed Team Philippines following their historic success at the Paris 2024 Olympics. He also guaranteed the Filipino athletes that he would build “formal structure” to develop the country’s sports program.
Marcos noted a lack of “official, technical” government support for athletes.
“Instead of issuing cash prizes—well, if you need more cash, we’ll find some more. But I think, more importantly, I want to be part of the development of sports in the Philippines. We have been left behind,” the President said.
“They did it on their own, of course someone is helping them. Sometimes the government helped. But there is no formal structure to help our athletes. And that’s what we are going to establish now,” he furthered.
The President directed the athletes to seek support from the government with the aim to thrive not just in the Olympics, but also in other international events where they desire to participate.
In an interview, he added that he wishes to get feedback from both athletes and coaches on how to further grow the sports program and win more medals for athletes.
“That is what I want to talk about, not only the athletes but also the coaches, what else is lacking, for the parents… what were the challenges? who trained Carlos Yulo —what was the most challenging part so we can help?” Marcos said.
The Philippines ranked 37th overall during the Paris 2024 Olympics and was the top Southeast Asian country. Hence, the President awarded incentives to each Filipino athlete.
Photo courtesy: One News PH