NSA heads laud PSC on benefits

Even the staunchest critic of the Philippine Sports Commission is happy with the latest move of the government sports agency.

“That’s very good news. That’s nice,” said Go Teng Kok, president of the Philippine Amateur Track and Field Association yesterday.

GTK, who’s had differences with past and present PSC officials, was referring to the increases in monthly allowances granted to athletes and coaches in the national pool.

Effective June 1, PSC chairman Wiliam “Butch” Ramirez said the country’s top athletes, medalists in the Southeast Asian Games and competitions of higher level, will receive P15,000 a month from P8,000.

On top of these, those staying in training camps will receive P350 a day in meal allowances,  and those staying with their families get P100 a day.

Head coaches also got a big boost – a P20,000 monthly salary. Their assistants will receive P15,000 a month and those handling the junior athletes will get P10,000 each.

“That’s very nice. But it should have been done before. Because if you compare our athletes with those from other countries they’re behind,” said GTK.

“But I’m happy with what the PSC is doing right now. At least the money is being spent on the athletes and the coaches, the local ones, instead of the foreign coaches,” he added.

Steve Hontiveros, president of the Philippine Bowling Congress, another perennial source of pride for the country in international competitions, welcomed the PSC move.

“We welcome it. But it really depends on the NSA (national sports association). But as far as bowling is concerned all our athletes are not eating here (Rizal Memorial Sports Complex) anyway,” he said.