MANILA — Tokyo 2020 silver medalist Carlo Paalam has booked his ticket to the Paris 2024 Olympics after a decisive victory over India’s Sachin Sachin.
Paalam took it with a unanimous 5-0 decision in the semifinals of the 2024 Boxing 2nd World Qualification Tournament on June 1, 2024, in Bangkok, Thailand.
The 23-year-old boxer from Bukidnon impressed all five judges in the second round and maintained his performance in the third to secure his Olympic spot.
Paalam, a two-time SEA Games champion, will join fellow Tokyo medalists Eumir Marcial and Nesthy Petecio in Paris, along with newcomer Aira Villegas.
Hergie Baclayan, who transitioned from winning a Vovinam World title last year to boxing, is also close to joining the Philippine delegation to Paris, needing just one more win.
The Philippines will be represented by four athletes in both boxing and artistic gymnastics at the Games.
In gymnastics, two-time World champion Carlos Yulo leads the team, which includes Alleah Finnegan, Levi Ruivivar, and Emma Malabuyo.
In weightlifting, John Ceniza, Elreen Ando, and Vanessa Sarno aim to follow in the footsteps of Hidilyn Diaz, the country’s first Olympic gold medalist.
Rounding out the Olympic squad for the Philippines are pole vaulter and 2023 Athletics Worlds silver medalist EJ Obiena, rower Joanie Delgaco, and fencer Samantha Catantan.
(el Amigo/MNM)
