RECEPTION AT THE PALACE President Marcos receives Filipino Olympians, led by double gold winner Carlos Yulo (left), at Malacañang on Tuesday night where they were given honors following their participation in the 2024 Paris Olympics. The President makes time to greet Yulo, who made history for his two gold medals in gymnastics events, during the Palace reception. —Marianne Bermudez and PPA pool
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday vowed to boost support for Filipino athletes by developing a “formal structure” that will provide them assistance to excel in international competitions.
Marcos made the pronouncement as he welcomed the Filipino athletes who participated in the 2024 Paris Olympics at the Malacañang Palace.
In his speech, Marcos admitted that there is no “official, technical” support provided by the government to athletes.
READ: Marcos seeks Carlos Yulo’s help in winning more medals
“Instead of issuing cash prizes—well, if you need more cash, we’ll find some more. But I think, more importantly, I want to be part of the development of sports in the Philippines. We have been left behind,” said Marcos.
“They did it on their own, of course someone is helping them. Sometimes the government helped. But there is no formal structure to help our athletes. And that’s what we are going to establish now,” he added.
Marcos urged athletes to tell the government what support they need in order to excel not just in the Olympics but in all international competitions they wish to participate in.
In a chance interview, Marcos said he is aiming to get both the athletes’ and their coaches’ opinion on what they need to further improve the number of athletes winning medals.
“That is what I want to talk about, not only the athletes but also the coaches, what else is lacking, for the parents… what were the challenge? [those] who trained [Carlos] Yulo —what was the most challenging part so we can help?” he said.
Among the athletes who met Marcos during the ceremony were Carlos Yulo, who won two gold medals in men’s gymnastics, as well as Aira Villegas and Nesthy Petecio who each won bronze in women’s boxing.
All the athletes were then awarded with presidential citations, as well as P1 million financial incentive each.