By Dolly Yasa
BACOLOD CITY — Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson emphasized that athletes should not be motivated solely by cash incentives to compete in sports.
Lacson made the remarks during the ceremonial distribution of P1.5 million in cash incentives to medalists and coaches from the 2024 Western Visayas Regional Athletic Association Meet (WVRAA), held Monday at the Capitol Social Hall.
“The incentives the athletes received are symbols of appreciation and must not be the reason why they compete,” Lacson stated, underscoring the symbolic nature of these rewards.
Lacson highlighted the deeper value of sports beyond monetary gains.
“Beyond monetary rewards, sports competitions offer a platform to showcase your skills. Whether it’s winning a championship or simply performing your best, these goals provide motivation and purpose that you need to excel both in life and sports,” he said.
Athletes who won gold medals received P1,500 each, those with silver got P1,000, and bronze medalists received P700. In the Elementary Division, Negros Occidental athletes garnered 64 golds, 64 silvers, and 49 bronzes.
In the Secondary Division, they achieved 88 golds, 86 silvers, and 73 bronzes. Coaches, assistant coaches, chaperones, and trainers also received cash incentives.
Governor Lacson also had words of encouragement for those advancing to represent Negros Occidental and Western Visayas in the upcoming Palarong Pambansa.
“Carry with you the same determination and passion or even greater than what led you to victory in WVRAA,” he added.
Negros Occidental ranked as the first runner-up in the final results of WVRAA 2024.
