PSC plans to give NSAs more funds

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) is close to finalizing the overall budget for the different NSAs (national sports associations) for 2018.

Chairman William Ramirez said the NSAs can expect something bigger.

“We have allocated P600 million for the NSAs from a mere P200 million,” said Ramirez, whose office is wrapping up its meetings with the more than 40 NSAs.

Executive director Atty. Sannah Fivaldo presided over the budget discussions that started in the last week of October.  

The NSAs will receive an annual budget of as high as P40 million down to P10 million.

“The money will be there for them to spend from January to December next year. The tickets (airfare), supplies and equipment will be provided faster because the money is there,” said the chairman.

Also to be covered by the budget are the foreign exposure of the national athletes.

“This will lessen the dynamics and pressure between the PSC and NSAs. But the the NSAs will be answerable for their performance. We can give them more but they have to perform,” Ramirez added.

The NSAs, however, will have to follow certain requirements before they get hold of their respective budgets for 2018.

Ramirez said the NSAs must present the latest certification from their IFs (international federations) showing that they are the legitimate body representing the sport in the Philippines.

“They must be the certified NSA. Then they will also have to present the recognition of the POC (Philippine Olympic Committee). And they must improve their liquidation and stop any intra-NSA dispute,” said Ramirez.