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Newly-appointed PSC Chairman Pato Gregorio unveils bold reforms
It is a new era for Philippine sports as the newly-appointed Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman, John Patrick “Pato” Gregorio, rolls out a revitalized roadmap for the agency.
At the heart of Gregorio’s leadership are three strategic priorities: enhancing the welfare of the athletes, professionalizing sports governance and facilities management, and harnessing potential sports tourism.
But the biggest takeaway from his address was a game-changing announcement: starting this August, all national athletes and national coaches will receive a Php 5,000 monthly increase in their allowance.
PHILIPPINE SPORTS COMMISSION'S 2025 GENERAL ASSEMBLY
“Starting August, 5,000 per athlete, 5,000 per coach, across the board,” Gregorio declared. Why? Because we realized that so many athletes still get P10,000 per month that is lower than the minimum wage. How can our athletes survive if Php 10,000 is lower?”
The move underscores the PSC’s commitment to supporting the backbone of Philippine sports — its athletes and coaches — and marks a renewed commitment to empowering those who carry the nation’s pride.
Gregorio also outlined the other five key initiatives set for implementation, highlighting the government’s new commitment to grassroots and elite sports programs including: the procurement of training tracksuits, the reactivation of athletes’ cafeterias, establishing a 24/7 help desk dedicated to addressing the concerns and needs of national athletes across the country, the approval of Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR), and the process of disbursing athlete and coach allowances.
“I hope you [athletes and coaches] leave this room smiling. We will improve both your performance and your lives,” said Gregorio as he concluded his presentation of the PSC’s revitalization roadmap.
Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) President Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino warmly responded, describing the renewed relationship between the POC and PSC as “a rhythm in harmony.”
The high-level assembly was graced by key figures in Philippine sports and government, including Representatives Mike Dy, Richard Gomez, Roberto Puno, and House Majority Leader Rep. Manuel Jose “Mannix” Dalipe, represented by Cong. Andrew Julian K. Romualdez.
Also in attendance were POC Secretary General Atty. Wharton Chan; UAAP Board Representative and Adamson University President Fr. Aldrin Suan, CM; PHILSPADA President Michael Barredo; and Commission on Audit Team Leader Jorge Roman Lozano.
Joining Chairman Gregorio from the PSC were Commissioners Olivia “Bong” G. Coo, Walter Francis “Wawit” K. Torres, Matthew “Fritz” P. Gaston, Edward L. Hayco, OIC Executive Director Atty. Guillermo B. Iroy Jr., and Deputy Executive Director Merlita Ibay.
PHILIPPINE SPORTS COMMISSION'S 2025 GENERAL ASSEMBLY
