Binay: Grassroots program, private sector are vital to Philippine sports development

CEBU, Philippines - Vice President Jejomar Binay believes that developing sports programs at the grassroots level and tapping the private sector are the major factors in improving the Philippines' standing in international competitions.

“Let us find new strength in grassroots programs and open avenues with the private sector to fill the gaps that hamper our champions. I believe that there is a lot that local government officials could do to strengthen and develop sports development in the country, especially at the grassroots level,” Binay said during the 1st Philippine Sports Commission-Local Government Unit (PSC-LGU) Summit the other day at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila.

Binay said the different national sports associations in the country should also increase cooperation with the private sector to secure more funds from sponsors.

“Many events such as boxing, taekwondo and basketball enjoy staunch support from top firms and tycoons, and our athletes in these sports continue to do well in regional and international competitions. If they can fund sports teams to sell their products, there is no reason why they cannot fund teams that represent our spirit, our identity and our country in the spirit of building peace and goodwill among nations,” he said.

 Binay cited as an example the Philippine Azkals, whose manager Dan Palami at the start spent his own money to fund the training of the football team. The Azkals are now top endorsers of various products.

“Kung sa ngayon, ang Philippine Azkals ay kilala sa buong bansa at ang kanilang mga larawan ay tanaw sa EDSA at sa telebisyon, tandaan po natin na sila ay nagsimula sa wala,” Binay said. (FREEMAN)