BAGUIO CITY — The long-envisioned Sports University is now moving closer to reality with the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) throwing its full support behind the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC).

For PSC chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio, this marks a defining moment, saying that “Pagcor chairman Al Tengco is more than a benefactor. Beyond what Pagcor mandates, he understands what is truly needed by Philippine sports to thrive. That is unique and absolutely vital.”

The Sports University project, eyed for New Clark City, represents a transformative leap for Philippine sports. Neighboring countries already boast similar institutions, and the Philippines — with its growing pool of athletes and vast training grounds — is poised to join their ranks.

“It’s about time that our country creates a Sports University,” Tengco said after the signing of a memorandum of agreement between the Philippine Military Academy, Bloomberry Cultural Foundation Inc. and Pagcor on Friday.

“Chairman Pato and I discussed how we can help each other beyond Pagcor’s monthly support to the PSC. I fully support the idea of building a sports university.”

Pagcor’s mandated five‑percent share of gross gaming revenue now delivers nearly P400 million monthly, amounting to about P5 billion annually.

Yet the partnership goes deeper than figures. Incentives for medal‑winning athletes, support for coaches, and grassroots programs are already in place, but the Sports University signals a new era of institutional development.

Since the Supreme Court’s ruling took effect on 1 January, granting the PSC Pagcor’s full five‑percent share of gross gaming revenue, that support has evolved into a true game‑changer for Philippine sports.

“If you noticed, there are many Filipino athletes who have been winning lately. One reason is the funding from Pagcor — that’s our support to Philippine sports. But more than that, it’s the vision and governance of PSC chairman Patrick Gregorio,” Tengco said.

“No matter how big the budget is, if you cannot allocate it well, use it efficiently, and it doesn’t reach the athletes the right way, then there’s no use.”

Gregorio’s leadership ensures that this surge in funding translates into direct benefits: better training, improved facilities, and opportunities spread across the archipelago.

“Our athletes deserve not only financial support but also the assurance that their welfare is prioritized. Every peso must translate into better training, better facilities, and better opportunities,” Gregorio said.