Finally, they want late sports icons honored

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SURIGAO del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers wants to honor the country’s deceased sports heroes by allowing their burial at the Libingan ng mga Bayani.

The administration lawmaker yesterday filed House Bill No. 3716 in the wake of the death of sprint legend Lydia de Vega, who succumbed to breast cancer last Aug. at the age of 57.

“I hope that it is not too late to honor our sports heroes like Lydia de Vega. This measure is but a token of gratitude that we all enormously owe her and our other unsung sports heroes,” Barbers said.

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The bill seeks to allow the interment of sport heroes at the Libingan ng mga Bayani “in recognition of their enormous work, dedication and sacrifices they have endured to bring pride and honor to our country.”

The bill defines “Sports Heroes” as the distinguished Filipino athletes who possess character and integrity and who have represented and brought honor and glory to the country by winning at least a gold medal in any Southeast Asian Games, at least a silver medal in any Asian Games or Asian Cup, at least a bronze medal in any Olympic or World Games, or a world champion in any professional sports competition.

“Filipino sports icons have this amazing, unique way of making a positive impact in our society. They are our source of inspiration and strength in direst situations and serve as good role models, especially to the youth. With their incredible achievements that brought honor to our country, they deserve a spot at the Libingan ng mga Bayani,” Barbers said.

Quoting Joseph Hastings, Barbers said: “Sports stars become heroes when they are admired for their athletic accomplishments. As a society, we yearn to feel a connection to them, bask in their success, and pattern our lives after them.”

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