Press Release
November 22, 2019

LAPID SEEKS INSURANCE COVERAGE FOR PROFESSIONAL FILIPINO ATHLETES

In order to give due protection to Filipino athletes participating in international sports competition such as the Southeast Asian Games, Senator Manuel "Lito" Lapid has filed a bill seeking to provide free insurance coverage for all professional Filipino athletes who are competing in international sports competitions.

According to Lapid, it is only fair for the state to provide its athletes with insurance protection, especially those who are representing the Philippines in sports contests both here and abroad.

"Nais nating ibigay ang nararapat na suporta at parangal para sa ating mga atleta na dugo at pawis ang ipinuhunan para lamang maikatawan ang ating bansa sa mga international sports competitions," Lapid said.

Under Senate Bill No. 1152, also known as the "Professional Filipino Athletes Insurance Benefits Act," the state shall provide insurance benefits that shall cover medical expenses, travel insurance, death benefits, among others, to professional Filipino athletes who are competing in any international professional sports competition or in other equally prestigious world championship games, in both individual and team events.

Once the proposed bill is enacted, the Games and Amusement Board (GAB) and the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) shall immediately include in their programs, the implementation of the benefits under the said measure, which will be included in the annual General Appropriations Act.

Moreover, Lapid said this bill aims to recognize the honor, glory and pride that the the Filipino athletes are bringing to the Philippines as they represent the country in the SEA Games and other prestigious tourneys.

According to the Philippine Sports Commission, the Philippines will be having the largest delegation in the 30th SEA Games with 1,115 athletes, and 753 coaches, which will begin on November 30.

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