FIFI Sharma has seen firsthand the sacrifices that come with representing the Philippines, which is why the Alas Pilipinas Women middle blocker is calling for more empathy toward athletes after Bryan Bagunas shed light on the financial struggles faced by the national teams at the Asian Games.
Sharma took to her Instagram broadcast channel on Tuesday to share her own experience as a national team player, pointing to the often-overlooked costs and sacrifices athletes shoulder just to show up for training.
READ: PNVF vows to fix finances, support Alas after Bagunas claims
“Grabe guys no, you won’t know how it feels until you’re in their position,” Sharma wrote.
Sharma, who lives in Mandaluyong, said simply getting to training in Quezon City can already become a significant expense, particularly for athletes who have to make the trip regularly.
“I come from Mandaluyong and we train in [Quezon City], getting a Grab everyday to practice for a week would cost me 6-8k. Per week,” she said. “It’s a sacrifice I can afford to make by the grace of God," Sharma said.
“When we trained, maulan pa. So sometimes, naabot pa ng P700 per trip."
And while she could afford the commute, Sharma pointed out that not every athlete has the same financial cushion.
“Some players take Angkas pa sa’min before kahit sobrang lakas na ng ulan. And others are students pa na ‘di naman employed like the rest of us.”
Her comments came after Alas Pilipinas Men star Bagunas publicly detailed the lack of financial support surrounding the national teams during the Asian Games, including concerns over allowances and other expenses.
Sharma also highlighted the financial uncertainty faced by some athletes outside international competitions.
“Our men’s players sometimes don’t get their full salary if off season,” she said.
For Sharma, the realities athletes face extend well beyond what is seen once they step onto the court wearing the Philippine colors.
“A little bit of empathy goes a long, long way. I’m super saddened by how some people belittle the battles of athletes. Lalo pa those who work in sports. Nakaka-sad naman,” she said.
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