MANILA — Three Filipino weightlifters have secured their spots for the Paris Olympics, marking a significant achievement for Philippine sports. Elreen Ann Ando, John Febuar Ceniza, and Rosegie Ramos have successfully qualified, showcasing their prowess on the international stage.
Elreen Ann Ando, hailing from Cebu, clinched her ticket to the Olympics by placing seventh in the women’s 59 kg category at the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) World Cup in Phuket, Thailand.
With a total lift of 228 kgs (100 kg in snatch and 128 kg in clean and jerk), Ando outperformed her compatriot Hidilyn Diaz-Naranjo, who finished 11th with 222 kgs (99-123).
Ando’s remarkable performance elevated her to the eighth position in the global rankings, securing her place among the Top 10 lifters eligible for Olympic qualification.
Joining Ando in the Olympic journey are fellow Cebuano John Febuar Ceniza and Zamboanga City’s Rosegie Ramos. Ceniza, competing in the men’s 61 kg category, secured the fourth position in the rankings with a total lift of 300 kgs (132-168). Ramos, on the other hand, claimed the ninth spot in the rankings with a total lift of 190 kgs (88-102) at the Asian Championships.
The upcoming Paris Olympics will witness the participation of these exceptional athletes, representing the Philippines with pride and determination. Their achievements not only reflect their dedication and hard work but also serve as an inspiration for aspiring athletes across the nation.
In the words of Samahang Weightlifting ng Pilipinas (SWP) president Monico Puentevella, “In God’s grace, we shall now have 3 or possibly 4 weightlifters in Paris. More than 20 years ago, we started with one, then two in Brazil and Tokyo, and now 3 or 4 to be confirmed officially by the IWF in a month. New kids on the block.”
He also acknowledged the profound impact of Hidilyn Diaz-Naranjo, the country’s Tokyo Gold medalist, whose legacy continues to inspire a new generation of lifters.
Puentevella expressed optimism for the future, affirming the commitment to cultivate more talents for the upcoming Los Angeles Olympics in 2028.
(By el Amigo/MNM)