Malacañang, to fete Filipino Paralympians

THE Philippine Paralympics team will be honored in Malacañang Palace on Thursday, September 11, for their outstanding performance in the 17th Paralympic Games. 

After putting everything on the line for the pride and dignity of their country, the six Paralympians of the country made a valiant stand in the just concluded 2024 Paralympics in Paris, France. 

Photo Courtesy: Philippine Paralympic Commission | Facebook

The six Paralympians included archer Agustina Bantiloc, taekwondo jin Allain Ganapin, wheelchair racer Jerrold Mangliwan, javelin thrower Cendy Asusano, and swimmers Angel Mae Otom and Ernie Gawilan.

A hero’s welcome

The Paralympians, like the 2024 Paris Olympians, will pay a courtesy call to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in Malacañang, following their successful campaign in the quadrennial athletic event.

“We express our gratitude to the President for his all-out support. Our Chief Executive made us feel really special,” said Philippine Paralympic Committee president Michael Barredo in an interview.

“Our President is very supportive who acknowledges and recognizes the efforts of our athletes,” Barredo went on to say. 

Making waves

Despite the fact that they did not win any medals, the Filipino Paralympians made an impact in their events. Following their spectacular performances, Asusano and Otom have emerged as the Philippines’ newest stars. 

Photo Courtesy: Philippine Paralympic Commission | Facebook

Asusano finished fourth in the javelin throw event, just missing out on a medal spot. Meanwhile, Otom advanced to the finals of both her swimming competitions.

“Our para athletes did their best at the Paris Paralympics but fell short of reaching the podium. We are proud of their valiant efforts, nonetheless,” said Barredo. 

“Now, it is time to return to the drawing board and establish a clear para sports pathway, from grassroots participation, especially among the youth and women, up to the elite level.”

Now that these Filipino para athletes’ 2024 Paralympic stints have finished, Barredo stressed the need to identify future athletes from local and national competitions such as Palarong Pambansa, Batang Pinoy, Philippine National Games (PNG), and others. 

At this point, it is evident that most of the para athletes are becoming older, which is why selecting a significantly younger pool of competitors could potentially benefit the country in future competitions. 

The Philippine Paralympic squad returned home on Tuesday evening, September 10. These athletes are scheduled to meet with the President tomorrow afternoon for a well-deserved recognition.