MANILA, Philippines–National athletes and coaches are entitled to a discount of 20 percent in all business establishments and transportation services across the country.
But not all businesses have been strictly following these benefits and privileges under the expanded Athletes and Coaches Incentives Act.
“Several establishments are not even aware that athletes and coaches are entitled to such privileges,’’ said champion triathlete Nikko Huelgas, chairman of the Athletes Commission under the Philippine Olympic Committee.
On several instances, Huelgas said the restaurant crew would ask for the advice of the manager before giving the discount similar to senior citizens and persons with disability (PWDs).
“There are establishments that honor our IDs. But in most cases, we have to shell out the full amount of the purchase,’’ said Huelgas.
Under Section 4 of Republic Act No. 10699, national athletes and coaches are entitled to a 20-percent discount from all transportation services, hotels, restaurants, recreation centers and purchase of medicine and sports equipment anywhere in the country.
The same mark down should be given on admission fees charged by theaters, cinema houses and concert halls, circuses, carnivals and other similar places of culture, leisure and amusement apart from free medical and dental consultations in government hospitals.
“I hope the media can help disseminate the information. This is a big help for our national athletes and coaches who devote most of their time to train and compete for the country,’’ said Huelgas, a two-time triathlon gold medalist in the Southeast Asian Games.