President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. doubles Asian Games medalists’ cash bonus
3 min read
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has doubled the cash incentives for medalists in the 4th Hangzhou Asian Games. The announcement was made during the Gabi ng Parangal at Pasasalamat Para sa Bayaning Atletang Pilipino on Wednesday evening, October 25, at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Manila.
Gold medalists, including pole vaulter Ernest John “EJ” Obiena, represented by his mother, jiu-jitsu champions Margarita “Meggie” Ochoa, and Annie Ramirez, received a total of P4 million each.
Silver and bronze medalists also saw significant increases in their cash rewards. President Marcos praised the athletes for their achievements and emphasized the collective effort behind their success. He encouraged them to continue striving for excellence.
The monumental victory of Gilas Pilipinas, securing the nation’s first Asian Games men’s basketball gold in 61 years, earned each team member a substantial P1 million bonus, split evenly between PSC and OP contributions.
Silver medalists Eumir Felix Marcial in boxing and Arnel Mandal in wushu were bestowed with P2 million each, a combination of PSC and OP contributions. Meanwhile, the bronze-winning athletes, including Patrick King Perez (taekwondo), Jones Inso, Gideon Padua, and Clemente Tabugara Jr. (wushu), Alex Eala and Francis Alcantara (tennis), Patrick Coo (cycling), Elreen Ando (weightlifting), Kaila Napolis (jiu-jitsu), and Sakura Alforte (karate), walked away with P800,000 apiece.
The men’s sepak takraw team members were not forgotten and also received well-deserved cash bonuses.
During his address, President Marcos exuded immense pride in being a Filipino and recounted his tireless cheers for the athletes while watching them on television.
“I extend a warm welcome back from your immensely successful campaign in the 19th Asian Games. On behalf of a proud and grateful nation, I commend and acknowledge the outstanding performances you delivered in the 19th Asian Games,” he declared.
President Marcos emphasized that it was Team Philippines that vied in Hangzhou, recognizing the collective endeavor that propelled the athletes to victory.
He further remarked, “When we attain such medals or awards, it is only fitting that we pay tribute to our athletes. But let us not forget the multitude who contributed, who sacrificed for each of these athletes – coaches, trainers, nutritionists, physiotherapists, drivers, and parents. This is truly a team effort; we are all part of Team Philippines.”
He lauded the athletes for not only their sporting achievements but also for uplifting the spirits of Filipinos amidst various challenges.
“Continue to aspire, continue to believe, continue to work, and leave no stone unturned in unlocking your full potential. Strive to be the best version of yourselves. Know with absolute certainty that the government and the entire nation stand with you every step of the way,” the President challenged the athletes.
