THE athletes, who have been diligently training and preparing to represent the Philippines in the 2024 Paris Olympics, received a significant boost in their pursuit of Olympic glory.
This additional support from Sen. Bong Go and the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) on Friday, underscores their commitment and hard work.
As the chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports, Senator Go — a sports enthusiast and athlete himself — wholeheartedly backed Filipino Olympians. He presided over the check turnover ceremony alongside PSC Chairman Richard Bachmann, commissioners Bong Coo and Ed Hayco, as well as Executive Director Paulo Tatad and other officials.
Fifteen competing athletes benefited from this financial support, with nine of them physically present during the event held at the PSC office in Manila City.
The funding, facilitated by Senator Go and the Philippine Sports Commission, provided each Filipino athlete participating in the 2024 Summer Olympics with P500,000 to aid in their preparations.
"Your budget is something I always fight for ... I will continue to fight for it because I know it will help you. Like Nesty (Petecio) said, I understand you're not after the incentives; honor cannot be bought. The honor you bring to our country, you carry it with you for a lifetime," Go said proudly.
The athletes who received financial support include Nesthy Petecio, Hergie Bacyadan, Aira Villegas, Eumir Marcial and Carlo Paalam for boxing; Vanessa Sarno, John Ceniza and Elreen Ann Ando for weightlifting; Carlos Edriel Yulo, Aleah Finnegan, Levi Jung Ruivivar and Emma Malabuyo for gymnastics; Joanie Delgaco for rowing; Samantha Catantan for fencing; and Ernest John "EJ" Obiena for pole vault.
"We are not the ones who should be thanked. It is you, our athletes, who have given us the opportunity to serve you. Your dedication and hard work are what make us proud. I will never neglect our athletes." Go stressed in his speech, expressing his deep gratitude toward the athletes.
Senator Go also thanked the PSC officials for their collaborative efforts, emphasizing their shared advocacy for strengthening the country's sports programs. "We need to work together to ensure our athletes have the support they need," he expressed.
"The Philippine Sports Commission is very thankful for all the support received for the Filipino athletes. Thanks to Senator Bong Go for your commitment to enriching our sector as the Senate Committee of Sports Chairman" PSC Commissioner Bong Coo said.