I. Introduction
A. Background
Sports form an integral part of the Filipino identity. With just a few turns on the streets, the
presence of a basketball hoop and individuals engaged in play is almost inevitable. This
enduring connection to sports has established it as a beloved aspect of Philippine culture.
Recognizing its significance, the Philippine government has made numerous endeavors to
enhance its athletic program through various Republic Acts and Senate Bills. However, local
governments have often postponed such legislation to prioritize efforts to alleviate poverty.
At the same time, local sports communities actively organize and participate in domestic and
international tournaments to develop their skills and assess their abilities against competitors.
A movement has emerged advocating for the government to provide free assistance to Filipino
athletes to prepare for and participate in international sporting events.
Since the 1920s, the Philippines has attained many Olympic bronze medals, encompassing both
the Summer and Winter Games. Notably, these achievements have been primarily
concentrated in swimming, boxing, and weightlifting. Ongoing plans are being devised to
prioritize the well-being of athletes in the country to elevate the Philippines' standing in the
Olympics. The potential revival of the now-defunct Department of Sports or the integration of
the Sports Commission within the proposed Department of Culture has become the subject of
deliberation and debate.
B. Importance of Filipino Athletes’ Experience
Filipino athletes significantly shape the country's cultural identity, providing insights into
essential values and aspirations. This understanding fosters cultural appreciation, unity, and
pride among Filipinos. Moreover, they serve as inspiring role models for the younger
generation, motivating them to pursue their athletic aspirations and instilling essential values of
discipline, perseverance, and resilience.
Exploring the experiences of Filipino athletes sheds light on systemic challenges they face, such
as inadequate funding, infrastructure, and unequal opportunities. Understanding these barriers
helps identify and address issues within the sports ecosystem, driving initiatives and reforms to
improve the overall landscape.
The accomplishments of Filipino athletes bring pride and recognition to the Philippines,
showcasing their sacrifices and dedication. Supporting and acknowledging these athletes boosts
national pride and encourages continued success on the international stage. Additionally,
sports can unite communities and transcend boundaries, promoting inclusivity. By
understanding the experiences of diverse athletes, we can create a more equitable and
supportive environment for aspiring athletes, regardless of their background.
This paper explores the poor state of sports in the Philippines, marked by consistent funding
issues, inadequate support, detrimental politics within sports agencies, and a lack of long-term
planning. To address these issues, a comprehensive vision for sports development, increased
governmental support, accountability among sports leaders, the establishment of specialized
institutions for athlete development, and active involvement from the private sector in funding
and grassroots initiatives are imperative. Only through collective efforts and a steadfast
commitment to change can the Philippines overcome these challenges and attain international
achievements, instilling national pride and providing opportunities for athletes to excel.
II. Overview of Sports Culture in the Philippines
A. Historical background of sports in the Philippines
Throughout more than 20 Olympic Games since 1924, the Philippines has secured nine
medals, consisting of 2 silvers and seven bronzes. Notably, this figure exceeds the eight
medals achieved by Thailand in a single Olympics. The Philippines' most successful
performance in terms of medal count occurred during the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics,
where the country won 3 bronze medals in sports such as athletics, boxing, and swimming.
Surprisingly, despite the passage of 90 years, the Los Angeles Games remain the most
fruitful Olympics for the Philippines. However, the overall state of sports in the country has
faced challenges rather than showing consistent improvement over the years. In the 2005
Southeast Asian Games, the Philippines emerged as the overall winner, surpassing its ten
neighboring nations and earning a remarkable total of 281 medals. However, by 2011, the
country's performance could have been better, finishing sixth place among 11 participants
and garnering a comparatively modest sum of 169 medals.
B. Popular sports and their significance
The sports played in the Philippines bear the marks of various influences. One of the most
significant factors is the nation's colonial history, during which the Americans introduced
sports as a means of physical fitness, leisure, and entertainment. The success of Filipino
athletes on the international stage has also inspired young people to pursue sports and
attain personal and national glory. Boxing and swimming are two sports that have seen
remarkable success in the Philippines, and the country boasts its martial art known as
Escrima or Kali.
Basketball is a popular sport in the Philippines, known for its strategic, dynamic, and
enthusiastic gameplay that benefits players and spectators. Despite the significant
resources required, the Philippines has achieved excellence in the sport. The Philippine
Basketball Association (PBA) is the oldest and most prominent basketball league in the
country and Asia, with 12 franchised teams of skilled, experienced, and talented players.
Watching PBA on television is a favorite pastime for Filipinos, and the country has the
second-highest basketball viewership after the United States.
Boxing is the second most popular sport in the Philippines, with many Filipinos passionate
about playing and watching boxing matches. The country has produced numerous famous
boxers, including Donnie Nietes, Nonito Donaire, and Manny Pacquiao, who have attained
significant success in the ring. These boxers have inspired young Filipinos to participate in
boxing and bring pride and honor to their country. Filipino boxing professionals have won
38 World Championships in various weight categories.
Volleyball is also an essential part of the Philippines' sports culture, introduced by
Americans during World War II. In 1992, the Philippines officially adopted volleyball as an
Olympic sport. Since then, the national volleyball team has made a name for itself in
international competitions. The women's national volleyball team won gold medals in the
1977, 1979, 1981, 1987, and 1993 Southeast Asian Games.
III. Challenges Faced by Athletes in the Philippines
The recent achievements of Filipino athletes in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics have been
widely commended. However, the reality behind these successes paints a less
celebratory picture of how the Philippine government has fallen short in supporting its
athletes.
Hidilyn Diaz, a prominent Filipino Olympian, shared her financial struggles in funding her
bid for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics last 2019. Instead of receiving assistance, she received
backlash from supporters of President Duterte, who accused her of being disrespectful.
Diaz was even included in the 'Oust Duterte' matrix and was maliciously red-tagged by
Duterte supporters.
Para-athletes Edwin Villanueva and Adrian Asul, part of the Philippine Paralympic
swimming team, have yet to receive their allowances from the Philippine Sports
Commission (PSC) since joining the national training pool two years ago. The
government has also failed to provide them proper lodging and food during their
training.
Filipino boxer Eumir Marcial recently shared that basketball player Thirdy Ravena
pledged financial support to his bid for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics after seeing his social
media post asking for donations and sponsorship. Irish Magno, an Olympic boxing
qualifier, faced financial difficulties that affected her training and family. Her government
allowance was delayed and insufficient, leaving her unable to send money to her family.
Filipino tennis player Alex Eala and her family refute the claim made by the PSC that they
received P3 million pesos in aid for her training. They have not received any financial
support for her travel expenses and training.
Grandmaster Wesley So, a Filipino chess player, switched allegiance to the US after the
PSC withheld incentives when he won a gold medal in a competition they did not
officially recognize. A Filipino figure skater, Michael Martinez, launched a fundraising
campaign for the 2022 Winter Olympics and sells online content to supplement his
expenses.
A common thread in these athletes' stories is the lack of adequate support from the
Philippine government.
IV. Opportunities for Athletes in the Philippines
V. Case Studies: Profiles of Notable Filipino Athletes
A. Highlighting the experiences and achievements of selected athletes
(EJ Obiena, Hidilyn Diaz, Jaja Santiago)
B. Examining how they overcame challenges and utilized opportunities
VI. Government and Institutional Support for Athletes
A. Overview of government policies and programs supporting athletes
B. Role of sports associations, universities, and sports institutions
C. Evaluating the effectiveness of existing support systems
VII. Recommendations for Improving Athletes' Experiences
A. Enhancing sports infrastructure and facilities
B. Increasing funding and financial support for athletes
C. Strengthening athlete development programs and training opportunities
D. Promoting inclusivity and gender equality in sports
IX. Conclusion
A. Recap of the challenges, opportunities, and impact discussed
B. Importance of continued support and development of sports in the Philippines
C. Thoughts on the future of being an athlete in the country