Martinez deserves more government assistance

Michael Christian Martinez AP FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — More than the applause, Michael Christian Martinez needs the backing of the government in succeeding global tournaments.

Albay lawmaker Edcel Lagman Jr. Wednesday filed a resolution at the House of Representatives to commend figure skater Martinez for his achievement while stressing that the country’s lone representative in the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics should get ample support in future meets.

“I believe, more than felicitations, he deserves the government’s full support in succeeding forays,’’ said Lagman.

He filed House Resolution No. 829 commending and congratulating Martinez for being the only Filipino athlete and first Southeast Asian figure skater in the Winter Games as well as for the exemplary honor he has brought to the country.

The Philippine Sports Commission, the sports-funding government agency, gave the 17-year-old $7,200 for the Games, the amount requested by the Philippine Skating Union, the national sports association which facilitated his participation.

“The PSU never requested since 2010 even if they were informed to submit a proposed budget for their activities every year,’’ said PSC executive director Guillermo Iroy.

Martinez has a solid financial backer in SM, which owns the mall-based skating rinks where he honed his skills.