TOP athletes Filipino like 2020 Tokyo Olympics silver medalists Nesthy Petecio and Carlo Paalam, Olympian and world gymnastics champion Carlos Yulo and world No. 3 pole vaulter Ernest John Obiena are expected to shine for Team Philippines when they compete in the 32nd Southeast Asian Games scheduled April 28 to May 17 in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
But new faces, who can make podium finishes are also seen to emerge and provide more medals, and a better finish for the Philippines in the biennial meet.
These expectations were expressed to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. during Monday’s sendoff ceremony for Team Philippines at the Reception Hall of the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City.
Marcos, who briefly showed up at the festivities, met with the athletes, coaches and officials of the national delegation to games, which will begin this weekend with the men’s football games. He encouraged even those who have not won medals to fight on.
“We can see that everyone is ready to compete for their sport. Kahit hirap mag-ensayo sa pandemya dahil sa lockdown, pero pinagpipilitan pa rin dahil hanggang ngayon ay nananalo po,” said Marcos, who had a photo session with members of the national team after he got down from the stage.
Filipino athletes and coaches fly to Cambodia in batches based on their competition schedule, starting with men’s and women’s football team, and the men’s and women’s volleyball squads this week.
“Iyung ibang nagpunta sa Cambodia na hindi pa nananalo ay sana mag-champion din. You are the hopes, dreams and aspirations of our countrymen,” added the President.
Sen. Christopher Go, the chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports, was also present, along with Philippine Sports Commission Richard Bachmann and Philippine Olympic Committee president Rep. Abraham Tolentino.
Tolentino said the presence of President Marcos was an inspiration to the athletes and coaches in their journey for execellence in the Games.
“We are all inspired. Pumunta ang pangulo to be present. The athletes are inspired. This is a big boost,” said Tolentino.
The PSC has earmarked P250 million for the PH’s SEA Games preparaton, training and participation.
“I’ll make sure that all bases are covered for all the athletes and coaches” said Bachmann.