Marcos wants structured program for PH sports

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said a formal structure was needed to develop Philippine sports, as the first family welcomed the Filipino athletes who participated in the 2024 Paris Olympics in Malacañang on Tuesday.

«They did it on their own; of course, someone is helping them. Sometimes, the government helped. But there is no formal structure to help our athletes. And that's what we are going to establish now,» the President said.

Led by double gold medalist gymnast Carlos Yulo and bronze medalist boxers Aira Villegas and Nesthy Petecio, Team Philippines arrived at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City at 7 p.m., where they received a warm welcome from their families and supporters.

At the Palace, the Olympians were greeted by the President and first lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, with their sons Joseph Simon and William Vincent.

Other Olympians present during the Palace reception were pole vaulter EJ Obiena; hurdlers Lauren Hoffman and John Cabang Tolentino; boxers Carlo Paalam, Eumir Marcial and Hergie Bacyadan; weightlifters John Ceniza, Elreen Ando and Vanessa Sarno; rower Joanie Delgaco; fencer Samantha Catantan; judoka Kiyomi Watanabe; and swimmers Kayla Sanchez and Jarod Hatch.

Marcos told the athletes to tell the government what specific support they need to excel in international competitions.

«Instead of issuing cash prizes — well, if you need more cash, we'll find some more. But I think, more importantly, I want to be part of the development of sports in the Philippines. We have been left behind,» he added.

Marcos said he intends to talk not only with the athletes but their families and coaches as well to discuss how to improve the Philippines' performance in the international sports arena.

«That is what I want to talk about, not only the athletes but also the coaches; what else is lacking? For the parents… what were the challenges? [those] who trained Yulo — what was the most challenging part so we can help?» he said.

«You tell us and hopefully, if we really work together and start to prepare — for not only the Olympics, of course, that's a very important one, but not only the Olympics. We start to prepare for all the international competitions that