In a bid to inspire athlete from excelling in competition, Benguet province has recently earmarked P1 million as sports incentives.
Governor Crescencio Pacalso said the allocation hopes to encourage more athletes from winning in regional, national and international competition.
“We have allotted the amount for our athletes who wins a medal in CARAA, Palarong Pambansa and other national competitions,” said Pacalso.
The granting of incentives was based on an ordinance authored by Board Member Nestor Fongwan Jr., who is also the Philippine Councilor’s League Benguet Federation President.
In the measure, Fongwan explained he was prompted to push for the allowance of provincial athletes since athletes from other regions and provinces are provided with cash allowances when joining the Palarong Pambansa and the Cordillera Administrative Region Athletic Association (Caraa).
The ordinance was also co-authored by Board Members Robert Namoro and Johnny Waguis.
“The provincial government of Benguet is mindful of the athletes who represent the province and who bring honor and recognition to the province,” the ordinance said.
In the ordinance, Benguet athletes who will participate in the CARAA receives P1,200 plus transportation allowance from the venue of the games to the Capitol while those who will represent the region in the Palarong Pambansa will receive P2,000.
“There is a need to recognize the equally important financial support to benefit the athletes in their quest to represent Benguet and participate in the Caraa meet and the Palarong Pambansa to encourage them to strive for excellence and aspire for commendable sports distinction,” the ordinance stated.
The financial incentives will only be given to medalists upon the validation of the Office of the Provincial Sports Coordinator.
(Roderick Osis)