The City of Manila, through Mayor Honey Lacuna-Pangan, awarded a P500,000 cash incentive to Olympian pole vaulter Ernest John “EJ” Obiena during a ceremony at the Mayor’s Office on Wednesday afternoon.
The cash award serves as the city government’s deep appreciation for Obiena’s outstanding performance and for making his fellow Manilenos proud despite missing a podium finish recent 2024 Paris Olympics.
Obiena, a native of Tondo and a University of Santo Tomas (UST) alumnus like Mayor Lacuna, bagged a 4th place finish in the men’s pole vault event by clearing 5.90 meters. His near-podium finish was a vast improvement from his 11th-place finish at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, solidifying his place among the world’s top athletes.
“We extend our heartfelt congratulations to EJ Obiena on his best Olympic finish to date. His 4th place performance in such a high-pressure event speaks volumes about his talent and perseverance,” said Mayor Lacuna. “As a proud Manileño and fellow Thomasian, we joyfully welcome him back to his home city, where his family, friends, and neighbors are all eager to celebrate his achievements.”
Mayor Lacuna also commended Obiena for his exemplary sportsmanship, especially in recognizing the new world and Olympic records set by Sweden’s Armand Duplantis during the same event.
“EJ gave us a truly thrilling performance, clearing the bar time and again with grace and determination. Though the top spot eluded him this time, his sportsmanship shone as he joined tens of thousands in applauding Duplantis’ incredible world and Olympic record of 6.25 meters,” she said.
Mayor Lacuna expressed her gratitude and pride, reaffirming the City of Manila’s deep appreciation for Obiena’s contributions to Philippine sports. “You are a true Manileño hero, EJ. We love you here in the Magnificent Manila,” she concluded.
Obiena was also among the Filipino Olympians given P1 million incentives by President Bongbong Marcos.
He did not join the Heroes’ parade as he took more pressing matters before his departure on Thursday for another international competition in Europe.
