By KRISTEL SATUMBAGA
All national athletes and coaches are expected to receive a P5,000 increase in their monthly allowances starting next month.
Newly-appointed Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio made the surprise announcement on Tuesday, July 8, during the General Assembly attended by athletes, coaches and officials that included Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) President Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino.
The move was part of the immediate interventions listed by Gregorio in carrying President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s mandate to take care of the athletes and coaches.
Aside from additional allowances, Gregorio promised to streamline the process of disbursing allowances within five days, contingent on timely competition of documentary support.
Gregorio also said a 24/7 help desk for athletes shall be established to enhance athlete support, and a new food concessionaire shall reactivate athletes’ cafeterias in the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex, the Philsports Complex and the PSC Baguio soon.
The government sports agency will also be restarting procurement of training tracksuits with a simplified process and design to ensure no failed bidding.
The PSC Board has also approved the IRR for the development of the Philippine Sports Training Center that has been pending since 2019.
