What started as a modest target turned into a celebration. Team Philippines went to the Third Asian Youth Games expecting three golds. Instead, the youth squad returned with seven golds and a total haul of 7-7-10.

POC president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino called the result a breakthrough. He praised the athletes during a recognition event at East Ocean Palace in Parañaque.

Record incentives for rising stars

In a surprise announcement, PSC chairman John “Pató” Patrick revealed major cash bonuses approved by the PSC board. Gold medalists will receive P500,000. Silver winners will get P300,000, and bronze medalists P100,000.

On top of that, the POC added its own incentives. Gold medalists will get P250,000, silver P150,000, and bronze P75,000. These sums go beyond the usual Athletes and Coaches Incentives Act payouts for senior competitors.

Tolentino then announced another surprise from POC partner Sportsplus PH. Each gold medalist will receive an iPhone 17 Pro Max. Silver and bronze medalists will each get an iPhone 17. The room erupted in applause.

Youth talent exceeds expectations

The Philippines finished 12th overall with seven golds, seven silvers, and 10 bronzes. China led the table, followed by Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan.

Gold winners included pencak silat’s Kram Airam Carpio, MMA’s Charlie Ratcliff, Lyre Anie Ngina, Zeth Gabriel Bueno, the mixed team of Jan Brix Ramiscal and Tyron Jamborillo, athletics’ Pi Wurden Wangkay and jiu-jitsu’s Isabella Butler. Butler missed the ceremony as she flew directly to the US from Manama.

Silver medalists were Travis Ratcliff (MMA), Naomi Cesar (athletics), Jasmine Dagame (Muay), Jan Brix Ramiscal (mixed), Kristen Aguila (taekwondo), Jamesray Ajido (swimming), and Jhodie Peralta (weightlifting).

Bronze winners included Crystal Carino and Nicole Tabucol (teqball), Alexander Tagure Jr (MMA), Iyeshia Blair Bituin (Muay), Aeden Roffer Cereño (taekwondo), Alexandra Ann Diaz, Jhodie Peralta, and Jay-R Colonia (weightlifting), Leo Mhar Lobrido (boxing), and Maria Alexandria Sarinas (jiu-jitsu).

Chef de mission Chito Gregorio said the incentives reflect a long-term plan. “They are deserving,” he said. “We must stay focused and build toward 2028.”

The surprise bonuses underline renewed support for youth sport. They also send a clear signal: the Philippines will invest in its next generation of Olympic hopefuls.