Pres. Duterte signs National Academy Of Sports Act

At a ceremony on June 9 in the Presidential Guest House in Panacan, Davao City, President Duterte signed the law establishing the National Academy Of Sports.

Senator Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Tesoro Go, who chairs the Senate Sports Committee and was present during the signing, said the new law will benefit student-athletes and promote long-term sports development in the country through educational programs for sports.

Go, who was one of the principal authors of the law, said he believes that Filipino athletes will now be able to catch up with the rest of the world in terms of sports development.

An elated Philippine Sports Commission Chairman William Ramirez expressed support at seeing the result of the hard work of the Senate and Congress: "The PSC commits its cooperation in the implementation of RA 11470’s provisions, recognizing that its success is a vital boost to the country’s sports development, complementing our agency’s efforts in developing grassroots and elite sports.”

Senator Go shared on social media that the country can expect world-class facilities, housing and amenities at par with international standards at New Clark City in Tarlac.

The sports academy will also, if needed, facilitate the hiring of licensed foreign coaches, trainers and consultants duly certified by The Philippine Sports Commission.

Senator Go underscored that student-athletes will now be able to acquire world-class training and quality education through a learning institution for sports that will give Pinoy athletes a chance to hone their skills to high standards. This, he added, would also be a perfect way to inspire the youth to focus on what’s best for them instead of getting involved in things that are not good for their future, such as drugs.