GIVING the six Filipino para-athletes extra motivation in Tokyo Paralympic Games scheduled August 24 to September 5, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman William “Butch” Ramirez announced on Thursday, August 12, 2021, that each of the para-athletes, their coaches, and accompanying officials will be receiving an additional allowance of P100,000 -- increasing their total allowance of P150,000.
Ramirez also asked Chef de Mission Francis Diaz to encourage his colleagues at the University of the Philippines to prepare the athletes mentally and psychologically, stressing this aspect was a proven formula for success in the recent Tokyo Olympics.
The PSC chairman further told the para-athletes to enjoy the game while in Tokyo.
“Kung nag-e-enjoy ka, mas maganda ang pulso mo,” Ramirez told the PSC’s online People Sports Conversations.
Meanwhile, wheelchair racer Jerrold Mangliwan (para-athletics) was designated to carry the country’s colors in the opening ceremony as Ernie Gawilan (swimming) will have the same responsibility in the closing ceremony.
Completing the team are discus thrower Jeanette Aceveda, swimmer Gary Bejino, taekwondo jin Allain Ganapin and powerlifter Achelle Guion.
Ramirez said that the PSC board of commissioners did not hesitate to approve the additional allowances for the para-athletes because of the high cost of living in Japan.
The para-athletes, meanwhile, overwhelmingly thanked Ramirez and the commissioners for the love and care that are given to them by the sports agency.
They also vowed to bring their best game, enjoy the experience and continue to aim for a podium finish.