PUWERSA ng Bayaning Atleta (PBA) Partylist Rep. Margarita Nograles today said Congress should take inspiration from the extraordinary success of Filipino athletes bannered by double gold gymnast Carlos Yulo in the swift passage of her pending bill to enhance and institutionalize support and benefits provided to Olympians, national athletes, coaches, and trainers.
In seeking to expedite action to pass her proposed House Bill 4088, Nograles said that the Philippines can produce
more world-class athletes like Yulo if they are properly supported by the government and are provided with attractive incentives to inspire them to train even harder.
Nograles’ call comes in the wake of the Philippines’ extraordinary performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where Filipino athletes, led by Yulo, showcased their excellence on the global stage.
Yulo’s victories in gymnastics not only captivated the hearts of Filipinos but also underscored the exceptional talent and determination of the country’s athletes. His success, along with the achievements of other Filipino Olympians, has become a source of great national pride and has highlighted the crucial need for sustained investment in the country’s sports programs.
According to Nograles, HB 4088 aims to address the long-standing challenges faced by Filipino athletes, ensuring they receive the recognition, support, and benefits they deserve throughout and beyond their active careers.
The bill was crafted in response to the challenges and hardships faced by Filipino Olympians and national athletes, many of whom have struggled with inadequate support after their sports careers. Nogrates cited the experiences of past Olympic medalists, such as boxer Mansueto “Onyok” Velasco, who waited 25 years to receive his promised incentives, and Lydia de Vega, who battled cancer with minimal financial support.
“Our athletes have given us immense pride and honor, as demonstrated by their remarkable performances in Paris. It is our duty as a nation to ensure that they are supported not just during their peak years but throughout their lives. This bill is a testament to our commitment to their welfare and a recognition of their invaluable contributions to the country, “ Nograles said.
Nograles’ bill seeks to institutionalize the following incentives for the country’s Olympians and national athletes:
1. Comprehensive Healthcare Coverage:
The bill mandates the provision of healthcare benefits for all Filipino Olympians, national athletes, and coaches through a special program sponsored by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC). This includes coverage by the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), ensuring that athletes are supported in managing health issues arising from their careers. Upon reaching the age of fifty, retired Olympians will be granted honorary membership in this program, providing them with lifelong healthcare support.
2. Retirement and Pension Benefits:
Recognizing the sacrifices and contributions of Filipino Olympians, the bill introduces a lifetime monthly pension of at least PHP 50,000 for retired Olympians upon reaching the age of fifty. This pension is non-transferable and serves as a financial safety net for athletes who have dedicated their lives to bringing honor to the country. Additionally, retired athletes will receive a lump sum equivalent to 25% of the total cash incentives they accumulated throughout their sports careers.
3. Scholarship and Educational Benefits:
The bill also ensures that Filipino Olympians, national athletes, and their immediate families are entitled to scholarship benefits. This includes full tuition coverage at state colleges and universities for the athlete, their spouse, and their legitimate, illegitimate, or adopted children. This provision aims to support the educational aspirations of athletes and their families, recognizing the role of education in their post-competition lives.
4. Death and Funeral Benefits:
To honor the legacy of Filipino Olympians and national athletes, the bill provides for a lump sum death benefit of PHP 100,000 to cover funeral expenses. This benefit extends to the primary and secondary beneficiaries of the deceased athletes, ensuring that their families are supported during difficult times.
5. Enhanced Support for Differently-Abled Athletes:
The bill extends these benefits to differently-abled athletes, recognizing their achievements and contributions in international competitions. The inclusion of these athletes underscores the bill’s commitment to supporting all Filipino sports heroes, regardless of their physical challenges.
