Malacañang announced on Monday that it will investigate reported neglect and lack of government support for Filipino national athletes preparing for international competitions, warning that responsible officials will be held accountable if irregularities are uncovered.
During a Palace press briefing, Press Officer Claire Castro made it clear that misuse of public funds intended for sports development will not be tolerated.
“Lahat po ng umaabuso sa kapangyarihan, lalo na kung may isyu tungkol sa pondo, hindi po sila dapat na maging masaya kung sila man ay nakalamang dahil pananagutin po sila,” Castro said.
The investigation comes following disclosures by Brayan Bagunas of Alas Pilipinas Men, who revealed that some team members had to borrow money to fund their training and purchase basic necessities, including food, while preparing for the 20th Asian Games.
Castro stated that the probe will look into the root causes of the resource shortages and determine what assistance was withheld from the athletes.
She added that the investigation aims to identify the specific needs of the athletes, understand why necessary provisions were not distributed, and evaluate immediate solutions to address the shortfalls.
“Hindi po kasi gusto ng Pangulo na iyong nagri-represent sa ating bansa ay sila pa iyong nahihirapan dahil parang hindi tumutugon ang gobyerno sa pangangailangan nila. Ayaw na ayaw na po iyan ng Pangulo,” Castro noted.
Castro emphasized President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s commitment to advancing the Philippine sports sector, stating that the chief executive strongly disapproves of national athletes facing undue hardship while representing the country.