In this March 2022 file photo, Cong. Eric Go Yap of Benguet shares some light moment with Team Lakay’s Eduard Folayang and coach Mark Sangiao during their training. Yap recently introduced House Bill 5160 that will grant retirement, health care and death benefits to professional Filipino athletes who won in international competitions or in other equally prestigious international games.
Current and former world champions can now look forward to retiring as Benguet Representative Eric Go Yap introduced on Tuesday House Bill 5160 that will grant retirement, health care and death benefits to professional Filipino athletes who won in international competitions or in other equally prestigious international games.
Yap said sports has been an inherent part of the Filipino culture and through the years, sporting events conciliates differences and emboldens dialogue, bringing individuals and communities together.
“In the Province of Benguet, we value our athletes as icons and inspiration for us to be
at our best. Even before they become well-known internationally by their achievements, we have already recognized our very own athletes by their hard work and determination. During competitions, we essentially root for them to successfully overcome the challenges and secure victory in their respective fields,” Yap said.
The solon, in his proposed measure cited Team Lakay, a mixed martial arts group based in La Trinidad, Benguet whose life motto ‘Champions are not born, they are made,’ has become adage for aspiring athletes pursuing their lifelong dream of becoming champions in their respective fields.
“Before they excel and garner awards, our athletes make a multitude of sacrifices during their training to be where they are now. Having witnessed how the members of the Team Lakay constantly rose above their struggles in the sport, our kakailyan in the province celebrate them as athletic heroes,” Yap added.
Yap quipped that the proposed bill is in recognition of the honor and prestige brought by athletes to our country.
In his proposed bill, Yap is seeking retirement benefits to world champions upon reaching the age of 50 worth P15,000 for individual winner or P10,000 for those who won under team sports.
Health care benefits will also be accorded to professional world champions under PhilHealth and in case of hospitalization, any amount in excess of the PhilHealth benefit shall be shouldered by the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) under its Individual Medical Assistance Program(IMAP).
Death benefits amounting to P50,000 will also be given to beneficiaries of the athletes to cover funeral expenses. SCORE
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