By Junex Doronio
RECOGNIZING THE POWER OF SPORTS to foster unity and bring pride to the country, House Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez said more aid should be given to Filipino athletes as he congratulated the Philippine delegation for capturing four gold medals in the recent 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China.
Pole vaulter Ernest John Obiena, jiu-jitsu martial artists Meggie Ochoa and Annie Ramirez, and the Gilas Pilipinas men’s basketball team seized the four gold medals for the country in the recently concluded Asiad.
“The achievements of the Philippine delegation, including securing medals and setting new records, demonstrate our athletes’ dedication, hard work, and excellence. Their success is a testament to the resilience and talent of Filipino sportsmen and sportswomen,” Romualdez said.
Aside from the gold medals, Tokyo Olympics boxing bronze medalist Eumir Felix Marcial and wushu sanda ace Arnel Mandal secured silver medals. The Philippines also bagged 12 bronze medals.
“Sports has [have] the power to unite a nation, and our athletes have certainly united us through their outstanding achievements. I am committed to furthering sports development in the Philippines to nurture future champions,” Romualdez said.
He also commended the Philippine delegation, the support team, and the individuals and organizations that contributed to the athletes’ success.
“The 19th Asian Games have showcased the country’s potential as a competitive force in international sports. I am confident that this success will inspire future generations of Filipino athletes,” Romualdez stressed. (ai/mnm)
