Ernest John Obiena, Asia’s top pole vaulter and the world’s fourth-ranked athlete in the sport, is already planning the next phase of his groundbreaking initiative to develop pole vaulting talent across the Philippines.
Following the successful launch of his first training facility in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, Obiena has announced plans to establish another state-of-the-art facility in Mindanao, specifically in Tagum City, Davao del Norte.
The Laoag training center, located in the newly built 12,000-seat Marcos Stadium, represents a significant step for Obiena in his mission to make pole vaulting more accessible to Filipinos. The facility is set to become a hub for aspiring pole vaulters in the region.
During his stay, Obiena personally supervised pole-vaulting clinics, sharing his expertise and inspiring young athletes to pursue the sport.
“This is my first attempt to teach our young athletes how to ‘fish’ for medals. I believe in investing in our youth and in the greatness that resides in every Filipino, in every corner of the Philippines. Let this be simply the beginning,” said the Asian champion.
Obiena announced plans to expand the initiative, with the next training facility set to open in Tagum City, Davao del Norte. He emphasized the importance of creating accessible infrastructure to cultivate local talent and believes that Filipinos have the potential to be globally competitive in pole vaulting.
“I believe this is an Olympic sport Filipinos can excel in,” Obiena said while reaffirming his commitment to secure the Philippines’ first Olympic medal in pole vaulting.
While staying committed to his ultimate goal of securing the Philippines’ first Olympic pole vault medal, EJ Obiena believes that fostering more participation in the sport is key to elevating the nation’s chances of success on the global stage.
Obiena’s initiative is the first of its kind in the Philippines and the Laoag facility, he says, is “just the first of many” he envisions across the country.
