Philippine Sports: Politics and its Implications on the Performance of Filipino Athletes In International Competitions

Abstract

Sports have been a part of the Philippine culture since the late 19th century. In the early going, observers have noted that Filipinos in general have a passive approach with regards to competitions. This can be attributed to how Philippine society has evolved under colonial rule for three and a half centuries. While there is no shortage of participation in several team and individual sports, the level of competition generated across the board has simply lagged behind world class standards. Lack of innovative training methods, state-of-the art facilities, and modern equipment are the usually cited reasons that undermine the potential of Filipino athletes. These are the factors why Filipino athletes are not performing well or not winning consistently during international competitions. In the early part of the second half of the 20th century, the Philippines have been receiving a lot of commendations in producing world-class talent in various fields of sports. Among these are in baseball, football, soccer, basketball, track and field, and swimming. Filipino talents in these various fields are undeniably among the best athletes in the region. However, this in itself is insufficient. Prevailing socio-economic issues and conditions are blamed for the general state of Philippine sports. Too much politics affects the performance of the athletes. Hence, politics surrounding Philippine sports has undoubtedly cast a dark shadow on the growth of sports across the archipelago. This paper investigates on why Filipino athletes are not performing well in international competitions. It cites the different factors and reasons for the set backs on the Filipino status as the best in the region. Laws and mandates were made to support sports institutions in the Philippines and prevent problems. However, problems still exist. One of them and most evident is power struggle. Power struggle exists not only in the government and in the society but also in sports organizations. This power struggle in the popular form of Elite Leadership prevents the development within tine system. Having identified the reasons why Filipino athletes are not performing well in international competitions, the researcher recommends the strengthening of the value system within the sports arena. For a truly effective change towards development in Philippine sports, early formation of nationalism thru education is necessary. Furthermore, to improve the system, the structure of sports organizations must be modified and redefined. Creation of a unified national sports academies jointly controlled by the government and sports experts can also help bring back the pride and morale of the Filipino athletes. Consequently, with athletes, physically and morally fit, the glory days of Philippine sports will no longer be just a part of the past, but of the present and, hopefully, the future as well.