Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson led the ceremonial distribution of P1.5 million in cash incentives to all Negros Occidental athletes who won medals in the recent Western Visayas Regional Athletic Association Meet (WVRAA) at rites held at the Capitol Social Hall in Bacolod City on Monday, May 13.
The coaches, assistant coaches, chaperones, and trainers also received cash incentives.
Lacson said athletes who won gold medals received P1,500 each, silver – P1,000, and bronze – P700.
Negros Occidental won 64 gold, 64 silver, and 49 bronze medals in the Elementary Division, and 88 gold, 86 silver, and 73 bronze medals in the Secondary Division.
Lacson, in his speech, told the athletes the incentives are a symbol of appreciation, not the reason for or the end goal of why they compete.
“Beyond monetary rewards, sports competitions offer a platform to showcase your skills. Competing against different opponents or teams pushes you to train harder and develop physically and mentally”, he said.
“Whether it’s winning a championship, qualifying for a major event, or simply performing your best, these goals provide motivation and purpose —the very traits you need to excel both in life and sports,” he added.
Lacson said he hopes the Negrense athletes who will join the Western Visayas delegation in the upcoming Palarong Pambansa in Cebu will contribute to the medal haul of Western Visayas.*