Athletes and coaches taking part in the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand are guaranteed P24,000 each from the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio said on Friday.

Originally, the PSC approved an amount of P18,000 for each delegate to the 9 to 20 December sportsfest in Bangkok but Gregorio added an extra P6,000 to pump them up.

The Philippines is sending a 1,600-strong delegation to the 9 to 20 December sportsfest.

Athletes were also given new gear as well as cards from a digital bank where their allowances will be deposited.

Gregorio said motivating the athletes is part of the PSC’s role.

“I saw some athletes before the 4 p.m. send-off program already wearing the uniforms given to them and already carrying the bags they have,” Gregorio said.

“We do not really have to pressure them. It is not fair to pressure them but it is fair to motivate them and encourage them.”                 I. Suing

SEA Games medalists will have a lot of incentives waiting for them when they return home from Thailand. 

According to Republic Act No. 10699, gold medalists in this prestigious biennial meet will receive P300,000, silver medalists will get P150,000 and P60,000 for bronze medalists.

The Philippines is looking to surpass its previous medal tally of 58 golds, 85 silvers and 115 bronze medals in the 32nd SEA Games in Cambodia.

Athletes like Hidilyn Diaz of weightlifting, Ernest John Obiena of pole vault, Nesthy Petecio, Aira Villegas and Eumir Marcial of boxing are expected to beef up the country’s medal drive.