Palarong Pambansa Winner Gets ₱3K, Rendon Labador Reacts
RENDON LABADOR — The controversial motivational speaker took to social media to criticize a government official who awarded only ₱3,000 to an athlete for winning a medal at the recently concluded Palarong Pambansa.
Labador expressed his disappointment, saying the incentive was too low and that the athletes deserve better. He even compared the situation to the case of a woman who previously went viral after emerging from a drainage canal in Makati.
The woman, later dubbed the “Imburnal Girl,” was photographed by a passerby, and the image quickly went viral. In response, the government—through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)—stepped in and provided her with ₱80,000 to start a small business.
She was even considered by DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian as a potential ambassador for one of their programs and was reportedly being considered as an honorary social worker. However, during an appearance on Pinoy Pawnstars hosted by Boss Toyo—where she tried to sell her cutter blade—it was revealed that she occasionally uses drugs.
In response, the DSWD said it would assist “Rose,” the Imburnal Girl, as she enters a rehabilitation program.
Meanwhile, Rendon Labador expressed hope that elected officials would show more compassion toward athletes who bring pride and honor to their communities. He also called for an investigation into whether athletes are receiving the benefits they deserve.
“SANA YUNG NILALAGAY NATIN SA PWESTO YUNG MAY MALASAKIT SA MGA ATLETA.. Grabe yan sobra na, dapat maimbestigahan yan May mga benefits kaya sila?” he wrote.
As of press time, Leyte Governor Jericho “Icot” Petilla—who led the awarding ceremony—has not issued any statement in response to the backlash. He has also limited the comment section on his social media post.
Related Post: ‘Imburnal Girl’ to Enter Rehab with DSWD’s Support