Politics · Philippines Bureau
Senate to probe delayed payments to Philippine national athletes
Philippine senators have launched an inquiry into payment delays affecting national athletes, with volleyball captain Bryan Bagunas revealing that some players have been without allowances since July and forced to borrow funds for training expenses.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — The Philippine Senate opened an investigation Monday into the delayed release of allowances for national athletes, following complaints from Alas Pilipinas men's volleyball captain Bryan Bagunas that team members have experienced payment gaps stretching back several months.
During session, Senator Joel Villanueva raised the matter as a manifestation, calling for the chamber to determine the root causes of the payment delays and identify which government agencies bear responsibility. Bagunas disclosed that some players have gone without their allowances since July, forcing them to seek personal loans to cover training-related expenses.
The inquiry aims to establish accountability mechanisms and ensure timely disbursement of athlete support funds. Villanueva emphasized the importance of addressing the issue to prevent further hardship among national team members who represent the country in international competitions.
The delayed allowances underscore broader concerns about government support systems for Filipino athletes. Senators indicated they would examine budget allocation procedures and payment processing systems to prevent similar lapses in the future.