It is sad that only a few choice sports are enjoying massive media exposure, support and promotion while the rest of what we call “minor or secondary ” sports are not even written about or covered by major TV and broadcast sports channels.
So, this explains why only spectator events and matches such as basketball, boxing, golf, tennis – and lately, volleyball – are getting maximum media coverage and exposure on TV.
There is today an exclusive sports TV channel but it is concentrating more on the hoops game, boxing and mixed martial arts and other events where it can secure huge commercial sponsorships.
(Corporate and commercial sponsors only endorse and finance sports coverages that have high ratings and extensive viewer exposure.)
Because of the proven influence of various social media platforms, people have stopped patronizing the print medium since most news reports are already being published and aired over these aforementioned portals.
There was a time in the late 60’s and early 70s (before the PBA) when baseball and softball were extensively covered by both TV and radio, especially during the championship finals.
This was the era of the legendary Blu Boys and Blu Girls who were world contenders and world beaters.
(I am proud to say that I contributed in a small way in covering the play by play of these exciting matches over the government radio station Voice of the Philippines.)
For a time, golf also had its share of TV exposure and even tennis during Felix Barrientos’ successful run.
Today, this is the current status quo.
TV viewers are limited to watching only basketball, boxing, volleyball and mixed martial arts.
Tennis and golf have lost their commercial luster.
Bowling was also being extensively covered by TV, radio and the print media during the Paeng Nepomuceno-Bong Coo-Lita dela Rosa era when this trio put the Philippines in the world sports map by capturing one world title after another.
I don’t get to watch live coverage of championship billiards anymore since Efren “Bata’ Reyes prominently ruled the game on the international stage.
I am afraid that if the current system or preference continues, many of the minor and secondary sports may not progressively spread their virtues.
Weightlifting and gymnastics where Tokyo Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz and world champion Carlos Yulo respectively are the anchors, are not also being given even the minimum media support they deserve.
Because young sports minds are easily encouraged and convinced to take part in a sport they see as most popular, I wonder if the country’s grassroots development can even move a foot forward.
Perhaps the PSC under new chair Noli Eala can take a serious look into this “imperfect” situation. (Email feedback to fredlumba@yahoo.com.) GOD BLESS THE PHILIPPINES!
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