President Rodrigo R. Duterte vowed to increase funding for Filipino athletes’ training, as he honored those who did well at the recent 30th Southeast Asian Games.

“We will try to raise the money,” he told the athletes during a ceremony at the presidential palace on Wednesday night. “Your triumph showcases the prowess and athleticism of Filipinos to our neighbors in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean).”

Mr. Duterte gave the Order of Lapu-Lapu award to more than 500 Filipino athletes who helped the Philippines win the overall championship in the SEA Games, which the country hosted.

Athletes also received cash incentives during the ceremony. Under the law, athletes will receive P300,000 each for gold, P150,000 each for silver, and P60,000 each for bronze.

The Order of Lapu-Lapu, a distinction created through an executive order in 2017, is given to individuals who are recognized for their “invaluable service in relation to a campaign or advocacy of the president.”

The Philippines, which hosted the games, closed the regional sports tournament with 149 gold, 117 silver and 121 bronze medals, for a total of 387 medals. — Gillian M. Cortez

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