MANILA — Ernest John “EJ” Obiena is back in the Philippines, ready to resume his journey to pole vaulting glory after placing fourth at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
In a Facebook post made from Manila on Tuesday, Obiena reassured his fans that he’s back in training and determined to showcase his skills on the international stage once more.
“I am back in training, back in the game, and I’m going to attack the rest of the season with everything I’ve got,” the 28-year-old world No. 2 stated. “Expect to see more from me, and see the Philippine flag raised proudly on the global stage. Let’s get on with it!”
Obiena’s upcoming events include the Philippine International Pole Vault Challenge, scheduled for September 20 at Ayala Triangle Gardens in Makati City, where local fans can witness his performance firsthand. However, there is no confirmation yet if his Olympic rivals, including Sweden’s world No. 1 and Paris gold medalist Mondo Duplantis, will compete.
Expressing his gratitude to the nation, Obiena said, “I am filled with gratitude for the support of all of you. To be loved at times like this by the country that raised me is truly a blessing. Thank you!”
Obiena is also set to join the welcome parade for the Filipino Olympians, including double gymnastics gold medalist Carlo Yulo and boxing bronze medalists Nesthy Petecio and Aira Villegas. The parade will take place on Wednesday, starting from Aliw Theater in Pasay City and ending at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex (RMSC) in Manila.
Manila’s local government has announced that it will be offering an incentive to Obiena, a resident of Tondo, in recognition of his achievements.
Reflecting on his Olympic performance, Obiena shared, “The measure of a man or woman is not defined by a single event like the Olympics but by a cumulative measure over time. I finished 4th in Paris, close but not good enough. But I am not measured by this one result—my career defines me.”
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