National athletes and coaches across the Philippines will start receiving an additional P5,000 in their monthly salaries beginning next month, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) confirmed. The long-awaited increase was announced by newly appointed PSC chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio during his meeting with athletes, coaches, and national sports associations (NSAs) last July 8 at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

Gregorio emphasized the urgent need to uplift the welfare of Filipino athletes, many of whom still receive just P10,000 monthly — an amount lower than the country’s minimum wage. “It’s about time,” said Gregorio, expressing concern over the financial realities faced by national team members.

Athletes grateful for support during flooding, streamlined allowance system

Even amid bad weather, PSC continued its support by distributing packed meals to athletes at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex who were stranded by flooding. Gregorio and commissioner Edward Hayco personally checked on the well-being of athletes from disciplines like baseball, softball, wushu, wrestling, and hockey.

During their visit, PSC officials engaged with athletes and listened to their personal stories and academic goals. This inspired a commitment to develop scholarship opportunities through the Philippine Sports Institute. “As long as they share their stories, the PSC is here to listen,” said Gregorio.

Meanwhile, PSC officer-in-charge executive director Atty. Guillermo Iroy announced new administrative measures: national athletes are no longer required to submit daily time records and activity reports to receive their monthly allowances. Instead, NSAs must provide a notarized monthly training attendance certification signed by the NSA president or secretary-general.

“The goal is to enhance efficiency and maintain accountability in government support,” Iroy stated. Athletes like Henry Lopez from the Para chess team welcomed the news. “It’s a blessing considering the rising cost of living,” he said.