Marcos orders more funds for athletes competing in Paris Olympics

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday ordered additional funds for the country’s athletes who are participating in the Paris Olympics.

Addressing Filipino Olympians, Marcos said that the administration supports athletes and that P1.156 billion has already been earmarked for sports through the Philippine Sports Commission.

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“I direct the Office of the Executive Secretary to release to the Philippine Sports Commission [additional] funds to help support the preparation and participation of our athletes in these upcoming Olympics,” said Marcos in his speech.

However, Marcos did not specify the amount allotted for the athletes.

Marcos touted various efforts to support athletes, including the rehabilitation of the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex and the PhilSports Complex.

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“Presently, we are finishing the National Academy of Sports System in Tarlac and the Philippine Sports Training Center in Bataan to train, to hone, and to develop present and aspiring athletes for future competitions,” said Marcos.

Marcos then asked Filipinos to continuously support athletes who are on their way to the Paris Olympics.

“You carry our hopes and dreams to Paris, you also carry with you the banner of our nation that believes in you, stands proudly beside you, and celebrates your every triumph, and is with you through any obstacle,” said Marcos.