HONING WORLD-CLASS ATHLETES. AFP chief, Gen. Cirilito Sobejana (bottom left frame), and executives of major sports organizations sign a memorandum of agreement in a virtual ceremony in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Thursday (May 20, 2021). The agreement provides for the management, development, and training of identified and potential soldier-athletes who shall compete in international sports competitions. (Photo courtesy of AFP Public Affairs Office)
MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Thursday renewed its partnership with sports organizations that aims to promote physical fitness and develop world-class athletes among different military units.
AFP chief, Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairperson William Ramirez, Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Abraham Tolentino and Philippine Paralympic Committee (PPC) president Michael Barredo signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) for the measure in a virtual ceremony in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.
The MOA provides for the management, development, and training of identified and potential soldier-athletes who shall compete in international sports competitions.
"The renewed agreement among the AFP and sports associations in the Philippines manifests our strong desire to raise the country’s flag to further heights in the global sports scene,” Sobejana said in a message to reporters.
Under the MOA, the AFP will continue to formulate and implement a comprehensive sports development program for all military personnel.
It will also provide administration and control to soldier-athletes and coaches to be in detail with the PSC.
The agreement is valid for three years upon signing of the parties which can be renewed under the same terms and conditions.
The AFP shall further provide qualified athletes and coaches in events involving speed and distance, combative sports, target sports, aquatic sports, forms and power sports, and selected net sports.
The military will also support the national grassroots sports program of the PSC, POC, PPC, and National Sports Associations for the establishment of Priority Sports, Priority Athletes, and Regional Development Plan.
The PSC, among other commitments, shall provide technical assistance to the rationalized establishments, maintenance, and management of viable Olympics-standard sports centers and facilities of the AFP.
In coordination with the POC and PPC, it will also afford the use of PSC sports facilities to military-athletes, groups, and associations.
The PSC shall also reserve slots and incorporate in the requests for travel, AFP’s representatives with appropriate allowances during international competitions such as the Southeast Asian Games, Asian Games, and World Olympics.
The POC and PPC, on the other hand, shall offer training programs to selected coaches, referees, officials, administrators, instructors, and allied specialists to enhance sports capabilities, professional and technical skills, and know-how.
The committees will also provide professional support to AFP in terms of program development in preparation for high-level competitions locally and abroad.
“The AFP is optimistic that the joint efforts forged through the memorandum of agreement will further elevate the skills and capabilities of our military athletes. Together with the PSC, POC, PPC, and other sports associations, we will do our best to develop future gold-medallists who shall bring pride and honor to our country,” Sobejana said. (PNA)
