Ilonggo student-athletes get PHP 24,000 aid

By Mariela Angella Oladive

More than 50 Ilonggo student-athletes received educational and financial assistance from the Iloilo provincial government, with each beneficiary granted up to PHP 24,000 to help sustain their academic studies and athletic training.

The assistance was distributed Monday, May 11, led by Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. as part of the province’s Educational Assistance Program for Iloilo Provincial Athletes.

The initiative aims to ease the financial burden faced by student-athletes who balance school requirements with daily training and competition schedules.

Aside from the one-time educational assistance, qualified athletes also receive monthly food and transportation allowances amounting to PHP 2,000 for 10 months, along with additional support for uniforms, school projects, and supplies.

Defensor said the provincial government continues to invest in young athletes as Iloilo pushes to strengthen its performance in national sporting events, particularly the Palarong Pambansa.

“The goal is to win nationals. Indi kita maglayo dira,” Defensor said.

While encouraging athletes to pursue excellence in sports, the governor also reminded them to prioritize their studies.

“It’s important that our athletes excel in all aspects,” he added.

The distribution activity was facilitated by the Iloilo Sports Development and Management Office, headed by Dr. Ma. Janelyn Fundal, together with Senior Sports Development Officer Ray Cabarles.

Under the program guidelines, beneficiaries are required to maintain at least an 80% academic average while continuing to participate in recognized regional and national competitions.

Athletes must also submit training reports, attendance certifications, and documentation of their training activities.

They may qualify for the program by winning gold medals, breaking records in sanctioned competitions, or being identified by the provincial government as among Iloilo’s priority sports talents for the year.