Under the leadership of newly-appointed Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Noli Eala, the agency shall doggedly ensure that its mandates are implemented. Eala reiterated the agency’s commitment to “care for Philippine sports like no other” as he briefed Senators on the status of amateur sports in the country in a hearing called by Senate Committee on Sports Chairman Senator Bong Go on Monday.
Eala talked about “a program which will ensure that when our athletes win, the entire country wins. And this is the theme on which my administration will center on.”
“I’m seeking to ensure sustainability and the success of our programs for the long term. It is our mission to carry out the mandates given to us by law to develop and promote sports in the grassroots as a tool towards nation-building and unity, and to ensure full and enhanced support for our (elite) athletes in their continued quest to bring honor and glory to our country,” said Eala.
Senators pledged their support for the Philippine Sports Commission, its 2023 budget as well as the country’s hosting of the FIBA World Cup in 2023. They also expressed their joy and pride on the historic win of Eala’s niece, Alex Eala who made history by becoming the first Filipino to win a US Open Grand Slam title when she became the junior women’s singles champ.
“I am heartened that this committee (Senate Committee on Sports) has provided so much support to Philippine sports, not only in legislative initiatives but also in terms of financial assistance,” Eala said, acknowledging the role of the Senate’s support in the recent successes of the country in sports.
Senator Go reiterated his belief that “investing in sports not only enable us to develop world-class athletes, but it also helps us in keeping our youth away from illegal drugs and other harmful vices.” He also stressed that sports have the power to unite people, and mentioned instances when success was attained because people came together behind the flag.
Vice Chairperson on Senate Committee on Sports Senator Alan Cayetano, Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva, Senators Mark Villar, Sonny Angara, Pia Cayetano, Francis Tolentino and Bato dela Rosa all manifested their commitment of support to the sports agency, the FIBA World Cup 2023 hosting and Philippine sports in general.