Palarong Pambansa Athletes Can Now Earn More Than Just Medals
PALARONG PAMBANSA – For the first time in Palarong Pambansa history, medal-winning athletes will receive cash incentives from the Philippine Sports Commission.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. announced that for the first time, athletes who win medals in the Palarong Pambansa will receive cash incentives from the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), a move aimed at recognizing the dedication and excellence of young Filipino athletes competing in one of the country’s biggest sporting events.
The announcement marks a significant development in the history of the annual competition, where student-athletes from across the country gather to showcase their talent and represent their respective regions.
“Masaya akong ibalita sa inyo, sa kauna-unahang pagkakataon maglalaan ang Philippine Sports Commission ng incentive para sa mga medalista sa regular sports at para games bilang pagkilala sa inyong husay,” said PBBM.
Previously, it was only the Department of Education (DepEd) and local government units (LGUs) that provided financial rewards to student-athletes who earned medals and distinctions during the Palarong Pambansa. The addition of incentives from the PSC is expected to further motivate participants and recognize their hard work and achievements.
The 66th edition of the Palarong Pambansa officially opened on Sunday, May 24, in Agusan del Sur and will run until May 31. The event continues to serve as a major platform for discovering and nurturing young sports talents from different parts of the Philippines.
This year’s competition features 20 regional teams composed of around 13,000 athletes competing in various sporting events. The large number of participants highlights the growing interest and continued support for grassroots sports development in the country.
Although President Marcos was unable to personally attend the opening ceremony, Special Assistant to the President Antonio Lagdameo represented him during the event. In his message, the President also highlighted the government’s initiatives to strengthen sports programs nationwide.
According to Marcos, government assistance from 2022 to 2025 has already reached more than 6,000 schools through the distribution of sports equipment and supplies, helping improve training opportunities for young athletes.
Meanwhile, Eastern Visayas secured the first gold medal of the 2026 Palarong Pambansa after Chrissia Tajaros dominated the girls’ 3,000-meter athletics event.
As the week-long competition continues, thousands of student-athletes now have another reason to strive harder, not only for regional pride and medals, but also for additional recognition through newly introduced cash incentives.
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