Senator Bong Go called for reforms to strengthen the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and improve support for Filipino athletes following concerns over food provisions, training facilities and access to government assistance.
During the Senate deliberations on the PSC’s proposed 2027 budget on Oct. 14, Go pushed for a review of Republic Act 6847, the 36-year-old law that established the commission, to determine whether its existing powers remain sufficient to address the needs of national athletes.
PSC Chairman Pato Gregorio acknowledged limitations in the current charter, particularly its focus on amateur athletes despite professional players now being allowed to represent the Philippines in international competitions, including the Olympics and Asian Games.
Go raised the possibility of expanding the commission’s mandate and strengthening its presence outside Metro Manila, where athletes from distant provinces often face additional transportation expenses when seeking government assistance.
“This is also important but there is no department that focuses on them… maybe it’s high time to widen your capacity,” Go said.
The hearing also brought attention to concerns over athletes’ daily needs. National athlete Kimberly Custodio raised issues involving food provisions at the Athletes Village, including meal portions following training sessions and limited access to the meal program for athletes training outside PSC facilities.
Beyond nutrition and financial assistance, Go reiterated the need to develop regional sports facilities and training centers to reduce the burden on athletes who must travel to Metro Manila for government services.
“Let’s make it more accessible for our athletes, our sports facilities,” he said.
Go maintained that strengthening the PSC’s legal mandate and regional presence should be considered alongside improvements in athlete welfare, as Congress reviews whether the commission’s existing structure can meet the demands of Philippine sports.
