MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) distributed incentives to 96 athletes and 52 coaches following their campaign in the 2025 Asean Para Games.
PSC Chairman Patrick Gregorio and Bong Go praised the para-athletes, stressing the need for equal rights and recognition for their achievements.
“We went from zero gold medals to three in the Olympics. With the PSC leading the way and the private sector partnering with the government, I am confident that we can earn more gold,” Go said during the 13th Asean Para Games Incentives Awarding.
Michael Barredo, president of the International Blind Sports Federation and founding chief of the Paralympic Committee of the Philippines, also commended the athletes.
“Despite the times of the energy crisis and all, today is the day that we celebrate the honor and glory of all athletes, and the pride that you gave to all Filipinos. This is the first time after so many years that we placed fourth after years of fifth and sixth place finishes,” he said.
Team Philippines delivered 45 gold medals in the meet, prompting the PSC to release P6,750,000 in incentives. Silver medalists shared P2,962,500, while bronze finishers received a total of P1,575,000.
Legislation seeking to equalize incentives for para-athletes and able-bodied athletes remains pending. Under current rules, para-athletes receive half the incentives of their Southeast Asian Games counterparts—P150,000 vs. P300,000 for gold, P75,000 vs. P150,000 for silver, and P30,000 vs. P60,000 for bronze.
The PSC, along with various sports governing bodies, continues to push for the passage of the equal incentives bill.
