Wushu athlete’s death a wake-up call for execs

There’s a compelling need to rush the rehabilitation of government sports facilities at Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Manila and Philsports Complex in Pasig City.

Philippine Sports Commission Chair Butch Ramirez said they would prioritize the renovation of the athletes’ dormitories following the death on Saturday of Rastafari Daraliay, an 11-year-old wushu pool athlete who succumbed to head injuries following his fall off a double-decker bed inside the wushu team quarters at RMSC.

“It has become a compelling position for the PSC to really fast-track the rehabilitation of our sports facilities,” said Ramirez during Monday’s press conference.

The bemedalled junior Taolu artist went back to sleep after the fall and never woke up. He was brought to the hospital unconscious and was declared dead on arrival.

Sen. Sonny Angara said the incident underscores the need to renovate existing government sports facilities.

“It is a grim reminder for the need to update government sports facilities, all of which are in poor condition,” said Angara, vice chair of the Senate Com mittee on Sports.

Daraliay’s remains lie at Santuario de San Vicente de Paul in Quezon City. He will be cremated on Thursday.