A total of P28.05 million will be given away when medallists of the recently concluded Asian Para Games and Youth Olympic Games receive their incentives today at the Malacañang Palace.
Asian Para Games’ most bemedaled swimmer Ernie Gawilan will get P4-million from President Duterte himself.
On the other hand, Youth Olympic Games kiteboarding silver medallist Christian Tio stands to receive P2.5 million for his effort.
The cash bonuses will be given away by the Philippine Sports Commission, by virtue of R.A. 10699, also known as the “National Athletes and Coaches Benefits and Incentives Act.”
This is after the Philippines finished by bagging a total of 29 medals (10 golds, 8 silvers and 11 bronze medals), which was beyond expectation.
“The instructions of the President is inclusivity in sports. This is one good proof that we have started the journey along that road,” said PSC Chairman William Ramirez.
Ramirez leads officials in honoring the sports heroes, along with Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea.
Philippine Paralympic Committee President Michael Barredo said, “our medallists will be the first recipients of the R.A. 10699, in the Asian level.
“We express our sincerest gratitude to the government and the PSC for its intensive support for our para-athletes.” added Barredo
Aside from Gawilan and Tio, para-bowler Kim Ian Chi will also be honored at the Palace along with para-cyclist Arthus Bucay, FIDE Master Xander Severino of chess, table tennis’ Josephine Medina and several other the para athletes who won medals.