Limited fund has prevented the Philippine government from allotting more resources on sports development as it prioritizes poverty reduction and uplifting the plight of the poor and most vulnerable sectors, a senior official said Sunday.

Communications secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said during a radio interview that the Aquino administration recognizes the efforts exerted by Filipino skater Michael Christian Martinez who competed in the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympics in Russia.

Coloma said he acknowledged criticisms against the government for its limited support for Martinez and other athletes who compete in international events.

He said the government is doing what it can given the limited budget, and the administration at present focuses its resources and support on sports event where the Filipinos excel the most like boxing, and bowling.

Coloma added the administration also hopes that the private sector would step in and support sporting competitions.