Bataan turns over land where new athletes’ home will rise

The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) will build the Philippine Sports Training Center (PSTC) on a 25-hectare land in Bataan where the next generation of Filipino sports heroes will emerge.

PSC chair William “Butch” Ramirez formally received the deed of donation from Bataan Gov. Albert Raymond Garcia for the property located in the seaside municipality of Bagac.

“I am so happy and excited on this newly forged partnership with the provincial government of Bataan,” said Ramirez during the ceremonial signing and turnover rites on Tuesday.

“This will give our national athletes a new home as they continue to bring pride and honor to our country,” he added.

Under the deed of donation, the project will be completed by Dec. 31, 2025, subject to extension upon the agreement of both parties.

“We are very thankful to the PSC and for all those who made this endeavor possible,” said Garcia.

Republic Act No. 11214, the law that created the PSTC through the backing of Sen. Sonny Angara in the Senate, was signed by President Duterte in February 2019.

The PSTC will rise from the P3.5-billion funding appropriated by the law for the construction of its infrastructure. The amount will likewise be spent for other provisions of the PSTC, including maintenance, operation and management.

The PSTC is envisioned as an ultramodern sports hub that will house sports facilities and amenities for 39 Olympic and non-Olympic sports as well as administrative, sports science, medical facilities and dormitories for athletes and coaches.

Ramirez said the PSC accepted the offer of Bataan given the strategic location of the property and its significance in the country’s history where the heroism of simple citizens during World War II mirrors the sacrifices that athletes go through in their journey to accomplish their objectives. INQ