MANILA, Philippines – President Rodrigo Duterte has showed another gesture to the sporting realm, personally leading the send-off of the Filipino contingent for next month's Olympic Games.
Sporting an identical jacket, Duterte promised a $3,000 allowance for the athletes – an increase from the usual $1,000 – during a courtesy call at the Malacanang Palace, Monday. Converted, the stipend amounts P140,158.50.
Coaches, on the other hand, were guaranteed of a $5,000 or P233,597.50.
Comprising the Philippine delegation to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil are Eric Shawn Cray (men's 400M hurdles), Mary Joy Tabal (women's marathon), Marestella Torres (long jump), Charly Suarez (men's boxing), Rogen Ladon (men's boxing), Miguel Tabuena (golf), Ian Lariba (women's table tennis), Kirstie Alora (women's tae kwon do), Hidilyn Diaz and Nestor Colonia (weightlifting).
Torres is the most experienced in the bunch, having been able to attend two Olympic Games prior this year's iteration.
Duterte even jested to give the athletes an island if they emerge victorious from the games.
The quadrennial event is one of the biggest multi-sporting event. It draws inspiration from the Olympic Games held in the ancient city of Olympia in Greece.
This year's Olympics will kick off Friday, August 5 and will wrap up on Sunday, August 21.