Monico: Invest in Filipino athletes
Samahang Weightlifting ng Pilipinas president Monico Puentevella is batting for sweeping reforms in Philippine sports, urging authorities to prioritize athlete development, strengthen accountability and end political infighting following the country’s campaign in the 20th Asian Games.
Speaking on DAILY TRIBUNE’s weekly online sports show “Off the Court” on Wednesday, Puentevella said the Philippines should not be content with its medal haul in Nagoya, stressing that the results must be assessed alongside the support and preparation given to athletes.
Team Philippines collected four gold, nine silver and 16 bronze medals to finish 17th among 40 countries in the Asiad held from 19 September to 4 October.
But Puentevella said the numbers should not overshadow the problems confronting Philippine sports.
“It's not true that everything is good. The moment you believe you're good and want people to believe you're good, you're fooling yourself,” the 80-year old former Bacolod lawmaker and Philippine Sports Commission commissioner said.
Puentevella, also the former Philippine Olympic Committee chairman and founder of the Batang Pinoy program, said the country must invest more in grassroots programs, school sports and international exposure instead of focusing heavily on infrastructure.
He argued that existing facilities in several parts of the country remain underused, while athletes across different disciplines need better preparation and more opportunities to compete abroad.
“Instead of spending money on structures, invest in athletes now. Invest in international trips,” Puentevella said.
“Instead of taking it away, we should invest in schools and sports development. That's how we develop Filipino children and national sports. That is the only way.”
Puentevella pointed to the Philippine weightlifting program as an example of the benefits of international exposure, with athletes such as Southeast Asian Games gold medalist Elreen Ando, Albert Ian delos Santos and Tokyo Olympics champion Hidilyn Diaz competing regularly overseas.
His remarks came after a Senate inquiry into the country’s Asiad campaign raised concerns over athlete allowances, team preparations and the administration of national sports associations.
Puentevella also called for a broader review of the country’s sports leadership, urging authorities to consult experienced officials and address longstanding issues instead of relying on the same people and approaches.
“If you continue to believe in the people around you, nothing will happen. But if you want change, call the task force. Invite the elders in sports,” Puentevella said.
He also stressed that sports officials must respect athletes, whose hard work and sacrifices deserve proper support.
“You don't owe the athletes anything. They worked hard. You have to earn their respect, but before you can earn their respect, you must also give them the proper respect,” Puentevella said.