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MANILA – A measure providing programs and incentives for the development of young athletes has hurdled the committee level of the House of Representatives.
During a virtual hearing on Wednesday, the House committee on appropriations approved the substitute bill to House Bill No. 5808, or the proposed Young Athletes Assistance Act.
Siquijor Rep. Jake Vincent Villa, the author of the bill, said there is a need to train and develop athletes at the earliest stages of their exposure to certain sports and at a very young age.
"The young promising athletes are the future of the nation's sports program. The possibility of competing in the higher stages such as the Olympics is possible," he said. "It is imperative for the nation's sports program to start by helping our young athletes to develop and hone their skills."
He also said young athletes must be assisted by giving them financial incentives to help their development.
The bill provides separate funds for the strengthening of the grassroots sports programs that would support not just the young athletes, but also local sports and recreation organizations, as well as sports facilities.
An amount of PHP80 million shall be set aside from the annual revenue of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation to fund the implementation of the proposed law. (PNA)
