MANILA – The Philippine Sports Commission is eyeing the formation of a national youth training pool for elite athletes beginning next year, in line with its push for grassroots development.
PSC Chairman Patrick "Pato" Gregorio made the announcement during his speech at the 5th Siklab Youth Awards on Saturday at the Diamond Hotel Manila.
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"I want to inform our NSA [National Sports Association] presidents, I want to inform our young athletes that during the last board meeting of the Philippine Sports Commission, we have approved the board resolution that says that starting 2026, we should have a national youth training pool. And the PSC will also give an allowance to these national youth athletes," he said.
There is an existing national training pool for seniors, but Gregorio explained that this does not include elite grassroots athletes.
"In the Philippine Sports Commission, there is a national training pool, meaning we are elite athletes. And we've realized when we were reviewing it, that part is honoring the national youth training pool," he said.
"So itong mga atletang ito, kapag nakalista sila sa national sports association nila, they should be given allowances as well. They should be given the right training as well," the PSC chief added.
In molding future Olympians, Gregorio underscored the need to train kids early in their chosen sport, even at 9 to 12 years old. He also said support, especially from government should be given during early stages of their career.
"Nararapat na ang gobyerno, ang Philippine Sports Commission tumulong na sa gastos, tumulong na sa mga pamilya para makatulong na kami sa mga pamilya," he said.
"We will do this effective 2026. And we were really very excited to implement this because it is the right thing to do. Hindi ba? Hindi naman pwedeng nag-checheer tayo sa batang atletang lumaban sa Pilipinas, tapos sasabihin natin sa magulang, kayo muna bahala sa gastos. That is not fair," Gregorio explained.
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The PSC chief emphasized the need for government support, which will help the athlete have more opportunities and exposure when competing overseas.
"Since we want to really inspire the youth we might as well consider giving them the right training and the right financial support," Gregorio said.
"We bring them abroad, yung mga travel ano nila when they compete. But walang definite program, hindi nakakahon unlike the elite men's and women's team," he added.
Gregorio likewise reminded the athletes, both local and overseas-based, to download and join the Elite Link App.
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The mobile application allows athletes to showcase their credentials and achievements for monitoring by coaches, scouts and recruiters.
As the PSC chief marks 100 days since assuming office, he vows to push and fast-track programs like the revitalized national grassroots development program, sports tourism, hosting more international tournaments, among others.
"We have to do this very fast because just like the youth, if we close our eyes and we daily then one day they'll become adults and if we don't train them well, it will be so late already," Gregorio said.
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