Legislation seeking full tax exemptions on rewards, bonuses, incentives, and donations given to national athletes and coaches is being pushed for immediate passage in the House of Representatives.
Under House Bill 9470, introduced by Parañaque 2nd District Representative Brian Yamsuan, the proposed tax exemptions would apply both to medalists and non-medalists competing in international events.
The measure aims to amend Republic Act 10699, also known as the National Athletes and Coaches Benefits and Incentives Act.
Additionally, the bill encourages greater private-sector support for Philippine sports by allowing donors to deduct contributions made toward athletes’ training and tournament participation from their gross income.
Yamsuan emphasized that athletes and coaches should receive the entirety of any reward, bonus, or donation without deductions. He added that non-medalists who make sacrifices during training and competition deserve equal tax-free recognition, which could serve as encouragement to continue their athletic development.
The legislative push comes as Team Philippines continues its campaign at the 2026 Asian Games, where the country has gathered 12 medals so far, led by two-time Olympic champion Carlos Edriel Yulo, who secured two gold medals.