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National athletes finally get discount privileges

Nesthy Petecio captures her Philippine National Sports Team Identification Card (PNSTM ID) and booklet. From Petecio's Facebook account.
By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA—National athletes and coaches can now avail of the 20 percent discount they are supposed to enjoy as the Philippine Sports Commission has already released two batches of paraphernalia needed for them to get the discount.

More than 1,000 athletes and coaches already got their discount kits, consisting of national athlete identification cards and discount booklets, as of Sunday.

“Thank you PSC! Unexpected delivery! May 20% discount na ako nito,” said boxer Nesthy Petecio in a social media post.

“National athlete privilege, excited to avail this! Thank you Philippine Sports Commission for making this possible," shared marathoner Mary Joy Tabal through social media as well.

The release of the discount ID's is a timely one as everyone is still reeling from the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We have always been supportive of our athletes and coaches and we hope this privilege help in easing their burdens caused by COVID-19,” said PSC chairman Butch Ramirez.

The discount privileges were supposed to be handed earlier in the year but has been stalled due to the pandemic.

Meanwhile, Manuel Bitog, PSC's assistance and coordination head, set a target date for the release of the final batch of ID's and booklets.

"As much as possible this 3rd week of September we should have sent the last batch," Bitog said.

National athletes are now eligible for 20 percent discounts due to the National Athletes and Coaches Benefits and Incentives Act.

Follow him on Twitter: @IvanSaldajeno_