Former House Speaker Rep. Alan Peter Cayetano and his allies have called on the national government and commercial establishments to provide discounts and benefits for athletes regardless of their sport and achievements.
During a dialogue with Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz, Cayetano cited the struggle of award-winning athletes who received little to no support or recognition before their success in international sporting events.
“My only wish for the athletes is for them to have the support since they have not yet been recognized or known, and haven’t won yet,” he said.
Batangas Rep. Raneo Abu reminded commercial establishments that under Republic Act No. 10699, their businesses are entitled to tax deductions if they extend discounts to national athletes.
He said Diaz was the first recipient of benefits under the law after securing a silver medal at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Bulacan Rep. Jonathan Sy Alvarado said an information dissemination is necessary to raise public awareness about the different benefits that national athletes are entitled to under the law.
Apart from the discounts, RA No. 10699 entitles national athletes and coaches to benefits for free medical consultations, health insurance, social security program and Philippine Health Corp. coverage.