PSC execs hail passing of ‘sports academy’ law
The longtime dream of putting up the country’s National Academy of Sports will now become a reality.
The Senate on Tuesday ratified the bicameral report on the establishment of the academy designed to merge world-class training in sports and quality secondary education for the youth.
Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chair William Ramirez said the academy is a great boost to the country’s efforts to build a deeper grassroots sports program that feeds the nation’s cache of elite athletes.
“The [PSC] Board is unanimous in saying that this is a welcome development. Congratulations and thank you to both Houses [of Congress] for the great work they have invested on this,’’ Ramirez said.
Known as the National Academy of Sports System Act under the House of Representatives and the Philippine High School for Sports Act as proposed by the Senate, the bicameral body’s approval will institutionalize an educational system within the framework of the national sports program.
“As a former athlete, [I believe] the birth of the National Academy of Sports is like hitting two birds with one stone. Affording our youth with quality education and world-class training is indeed a very commendable move to say the least,’’ PSC Commissioner Ramon Fernandez said.
“This will definitely propel, prepare and encourage our athletes to compete creditably in the world stage,’’ the four-time PBA MVP added.
Aside from turning into a breeding ground for future world-class athletes, the academy is also expected to produce other sports-related professionals and prepare the youth for a long-term career in sports.Ramirez said the lawmakers have recognized the important role of sports in national development since the academy would generate opportunities for talented and sports-inclined youth.
“This will now provide a clear direction for student-athletes not only in their quest for sporting excellence, but also in the academic field,’’ PSC Commissioner Charles Maxey said.
He explained that high school student-athletes would be properly guided in their chosen disciplines while enjoying the luxury of honing their skills in an outstanding training facility. INQ
