In order to give due protection to Filipino athletes participating in international sports competitions such as the Southeast Asian Games, Senator Lito Lapid has filed a bill seeking to provide free insurance coverage for all professional Filipino athletes who are competing in international sports competitions.
According to Lapid, it is only fair for the state to provide its athletes with insurance protection, especially those who are representing the Philippines in sports tilts both here and abroad.
“Athletes use their blood and sweat to represent the country in international sports competitions.”
“Nais nating ibigay ang nararapat na suporta at parangal para sa ating mga atleta na dugo at pawis ang ipinuhunan para lamang maikatawan ang ating bansa sa mga international sports competitions,” the veteran legislator said.
Under Senate Bill No. 1152, also known as the “Professional Filipino Athletes Insurance Benefits Act,” the state shall provide insurance benefits professional Filipino athletes who are competing in any international professional sports competition or in other equally prestigious world championship games, in both individual and team events.
The insurance benefits will cover the athletes’ medical expenses, travel insurance, death benefits, among others.
“The bill aims to recognize the honor, glory and pride that the Filipino athletes are bringing to the Philippines.”
Once the proposed bill is enacted, the Games and Amusement Board (GAB) and the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) will then immediately include in their programs, the implementation of the benefits under the said measure, which will be included in the annual General Appropriations Act.
Meanwhile, the seasoned lawmaker said this bill aims to recognize the honor, glory and pride that Filipino athletes are bringing to the Philippines as they represent the country in the SEA Games and other prestigious tourneys.
According to the Philippine Sports Commission, the Philippines has the largest delegation in the 30th SEA Games with 1,115 athletes, and 753 coaches.