Photos of the Philippine Dragon Boat Team on a Dump Truck Spark Criticism
NO BUDGET? – Several photos of the Philippine Dragon Boat Team riding a dump truck to their training session have sparked criticism.
The Philippine dragon boat team competes internationally in dragon boat events. However, there is a dispute over which organization is the legitimate governing body for the national team: the Philippine Dragon Boat Federation (PDBF) or the Philippine Canoe-Kayak Dragon Boat Federation (PCKDF).
The PDBF is affiliated with the International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF), the recognized global governing body for dragon boating. In contrast, the PCKDF is recognized by the Philippine Olympic Committee. The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has confirmed that the IDBF is the sole governing body for dragon boating worldwide.
Both organizations have their own dragon boat teams that participate in various competitions. The Philippine dragon boat team, under the PDBF, has taken part in major international events, including the IDBF World Championships, World Cup, and Asian Championships.
The country’s dragon boat team is making a buzz online due to photos of them riding a dump truck to their training session, which have sparked criticism from netizens. The images, reportedly taken by a vlogger on October 17, 2024, showed the team using a dump truck for transportation as they headed to their practice in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan.
Many online expressed frustration over the lack of support for the athletes, criticizing city officials for not providing adequate funding for proper transportation. Some comments pointed out how provinces often neglect their athletes until they win medals, at which point they receive public praise.
The Philippine Dragon Boat Federation (PDBF) responded on their Facebook page, stating that they did not authorize the use of a dump truck for their athletes. They acknowledged their lack of government funding, unlike other dragon boat groups that receive substantial financial support, and emphasized that they would never treat their athletes this way.
This incident has highlighted the ongoing issue of inadequate funding and support for Filipino athletes, sparking broader discussions about the need for better resources and infrastructure for sports development in the Philippines.
Related Post: Pinay Golfer Dottie Ardina Blasts Poor Uniforms and Gear at Olympics