By Mariela Angella Oladive
The provincial government of Iloilo has awarded cash incentives and educational assistance to outstanding Ilonggo athletes in recognition of their achievements in the Batang Pinoy national sports competition.
In a ceremony on Feb. 20, Provincial Administrator Raul Banias, representing Governor Arthur Defensor Jr., and Iloilo Sports Development and Management Office (ISDMO) chief Dr. Janelyn Fundal distributed checks to 83 educational assistance beneficiaries and 23 medalists from the recent competition.
Under Provincial Ordinance 2019-199, the sports educational assistance program grants outstanding athletes an annual allowance of PHP24,000. This includes a PHP2,000 monthly stipend for 10 months, a PHP2,000 uniform allowance, and a PHP2,000 school supplies allowance.
Each recipient received an initial PHP14,000, with the remaining PHP10,000 to be released later in the year.
Dr. Fundal emphasized that all Ilonggo athletes who win medals in competitions are eligible for the program.
Additionally, Provincial Ordinance 2000-217 provides cash incentives to athletes who secure medals in regional, national, or international events. Separate incentives are also allocated for coaches, assistant coaches, trainers, and official chaperones.
Banias commended the athletes for their dedication and reminded them of the importance of balancing sports and academics.
“Your medals cannot land you a job in the future,” he said, highlighting the value of education.
Governor Defensor has prioritized sports and education development in Iloilo, allocating significant funds for initiatives such as football field construction in major schools, the school varsity program, and the athletes’ scholarship program.
Through these initiatives, the provincial government continues to support Ilonggo athletes, reinforcing its commitment to both sports excellence and academic achievement.
