THE Philippine Sports Commission is fully aware and alarmed about the taekwondo varsity incident involving a female yellow-belter, a beginner, who suffered a swollen lip and face bruises after being partnered in sparring by her coach against a male and experienced black-belter jin.
The video of the incident circulated in various platforms obviously showed that the neophyte had been mercilessly beaten by her opponent which caused her hospitalization.
We support the on-going internal investigations spearheaded by the involved educational institution and the Philippine Taekwondo Association to address the matter and give accountability to the instigator of this maltreatment, and seek justice for the victim.
These actions would greatly help all the stakeholders in sports in reminding them to handle their constituents – from coaches, staff, and athletes – with proper and systematic care, thus never repeating the same incident.
With this, the PSC will double its efforts in campaigning for a safe sports space where all stakeholders will be treated with the highest respect and integrity regardless of race, gender, and identity.
We encourage everyone to never weaponize sports for any abuse and maltreatment.
