Para athletes grateful for gov’t recognition

MANILA, Philippines – Grateful differently-abled athletes said the recognition the government now bestows upon them will further inspire them to train harder in pursuit of sporting excellence.

The Philippine Sports Commission on Friday feted the medalists in the 2015 Asean Para Games and handed out a total of P6.783 million in windfall as mandated by Republic Act 10699. The new law entitles differently-abled athletes to P150,000 per gold; P75,000 per silver, and P30,000 per bronze in the APG and coaches to a  bonus equivalent to 50 percent of his ward’s take.

“Masaya kami kasi nagkaroon din ng recognition ang PWD athletes. Yung paghihirap parang nawala, napalitan ng saya. Saka makakatulong din ito para yung ibang magpursigi kasi may batas na para sa amin. Masaya kasi recognized na rin kami ng government as national athletes,” said Rio-bound swimmer Ernie Gawilan.

"We always hope for the gold and with stronger support from government now, we really hope to be able to focus on training and strive harder," said Paralympian powerlifter Adeline Dumapong-Ancheta.

The APG achievers, who were led by quadruple gold medallist Menandro Redor of chess, were the first to benefit from RA 10699 which was signed by President Aquino last year, according to House youth and sports development committee chairman Alay Buhay Party List Rep. Wes Gatchalian.

“We could see the happiness on the faces of the athletes and coaches. It’s not really because of the cash incentives but because for the first time, their achievements were recognized,” said Gatchalian.

“I hope the milestone law will motivate more athletes to excel and bring pride and honor to the Philippines,” added Gatchalian.