Pagcor backs planned Sports University

FORT GENERAL GREGORIO H. DEL PILAR, Baguio City — The long-envisioned Sports University, once a distant ambition, is now moving closer to reality with the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) throwing its full weight behind the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC).

For PSC Chairman Patrick Gregorio, this marks a defining moment: “Pagcor Chairman Al Tengco is more than a benefactor. Beyond what Pagcor mandates, he understands what is truly needed by Philippine sports to thrive. That is unique and absolutely vital.”

The Sports University project, eyed for New Clark City, represents a transformative leap for Philippine sports. Neighboring countries already boast similar institutions, and the Philippines — with its growing pool of athletes and vast training grounds — is poised to join their ranks.

“It’s about time that our country creates a Sports University,” Tengco declared after the signing of a memorandum of agreement between the Philippine Military Academy (PMA), Bloomberry Cultural Foundation Inc., and Pagcor on Friday.

“Chairman Pato and I discussed how we can help each other beyond Pagcor’s monthly support to the PSC. I fully support the idea of building a sports university.”

Pagcor’s mandated 5% share of gross gaming revenue now delivers nearly P400 million monthly, amounting to about P5 billion annually.

Yet the partnership goes deeper than figures. Incentives for medal?winning athletes, support for coaches, and grassroots programs are already in place, but the Sports University signals a new era of institutional development.

Since the Supreme Court’s ruling took effect on January 1, 2026, granting the PSC Pagcor’s full 5% share of gross gaming revenue, that support has evolved into a true game?changer for Philippine sports.

“If you noticed, there are many Filipino athletes who have been winning lately. One reason is the funding from Pagcor — that’s our support to Philippine sports. But more than that, it’s the vision and governance of PSC Chairman Patrick Gregorio,” said Tengco.

“No matter how big the budget is, if you cannot allocate it well, use it efficiently, and it doesn’t reach the athletes the right way, then there’s no use,” he added.

Gregorio’s leadership ensures that this surge in funding translates into direct benefits: better training, improved facilities, and opportunities spread across the archipelago.

“Our athletes deserve not only financial support but also the assurance that their welfare is prioritized. Every peso must translate into better training, better facilities, and better opportunities,” said Gregorio.

PMA Superintendent Vice Admiral Caesar Bernard Valencia PN and Bloomberry Cultural Foundation Inc. President Donato Almeda signed the MOA with Tengco for the construction of a modern warfare laboratory at Fort del Pilar.

During the event, Gregorio and Valencia formalized their collaboration through another MOA, strengthening the national pool in combat sports such as judo, karate, and taekwondo, as well as fencing, shooting, and wall climbing.

To reinforce this commitment, the PSC turned over new equipment for cadet?athletes, ensuring they have the tools to train and compete at the highest level.

From provincial sports complexes to grassroots programs, the PSC’s initiatives are now tied to a larger vision: creating a sustainable ecosystem for athlete development.

The Sports University stands as the anchor of this game plan, a hub where education, training, and research converge to elevate Philippine sports.

Gregorio’s short stint at the helm has already seen projects that uplift national athletes, from training programs to facility improvements. His vision extends beyond Metro Manila, aiming to complete sports complexes in key provinces so athletes can train closer to home.

“If we can finish these facilities in key cities and provinces, these athletes should no longer go to Metro Manila to train. They can train in facilities close to their hometown,” Tengco explained.

With Pagcor’s backing and Gregorio’s clear direction, the Sports University is no longer just a dream. It is the cornerstone of a new sporting era for the Philippines. (Pool story)