INQUIRER Sports

MANILA, Philippines - Athletes with disabilities may soon get discounts on establishments and a slew of benefits including monthly pensions.

The House Committee on Appropriations has approved a bill to give more incentives to AWD, including their coaches and trainers, who are recognized and accredited by the National Paralympic Committee of the Philippines and the Philippine Sports Commission, and those who have represented the country in international competitions, according to a statement from the House of Representatives.

When the athletes reach 55 years old, those who are individual winners would receive a lifetime monthly pension of at least P20,000. In case of team events, each member would get P15,000.

Bill authors Rep. Jose Lacson of Negros Occidental and Bacolod Rep. Monico Puentevella are also seeking a 20 percent discount nationwide on purchase of medicines and sports equipment and from all establishments, including hotels, restaurants and those providing transportation.