By ARGYLL CYRUS B. GEDUCOS
President Marcos has asked Filipinos to support the Filipino athletes who will be competing in the Paris Olympics that will start next month.
Marcos said this as he led the send-off ceremony for nine of the 15 athletes representing the Philippines in the renowned multi-sport event in Intramuros on Friday, June 21.
In his speech, the President expressed great pride in the athletes, saying they have gone a long way from their humble beginnings.
“I see before me men and women who have sacrificed countless early mornings, long afternoons, [and] late nights in pursuit of perfection,” he said.
“Your stories speak not just of feats of athleticism but [of] your growth as a firm, relentless, and forever reaching [for] your dreams like every Filipino,” he added.
According to Marcos, the government has granted P52 million for the preparation, training, and participation of Filipino athletes in the 2024 Paris Olympics, and even ordered the Office of the Executive Secretary to release additional funds to help support their journey.
“All of these demonstrate this commitment that we have to the advancement of Filipino athletes by equipping them with the tools and encouragement to realize their full potential,” he said.
With this, President Marcos asked Filipinos to show their support for the Filipino Olympians.
“I encourage all Filipinos to rally behind our athletes as they pursue and compete in the 2024 Paris Olympics. After all, we are not just chasing medals; we are sprinting towards making history, bringing honor to our country, and inspiring us all,” he said.
“Kami ay nandito at palagay ko yung sigaw namin na pagka pinapanuod kayo namin, lalakasan namin yung sigaw namin kahit dito sa Maynila, maririnig ninyo hanggang doon sa Paris (We’re here and we’ll scream loudly so you can hear our cheers from Manila all the way to Paris),” he added.
The Friday event also highlighted the Philippines’ 100 years of participation in the Olympic Games, marking a century of sporting excellence and international representation.The athletes who qualified for the Paris Olympics are pole vaulter Ernest John ‘EJ’ Obiena; gymnasts Carlos Yulo, Aleah Finnegan, Levi Ruivivar and Emma Malabuyo; boxers Aira Villegas, Nesthy Petecio, Hergie Bacyadan, Eumir Marcial and Carlo Paalam; rower Joanie Delgaco; weightlifters Vanessa Sarno, John Ceniza and Elreen Ando; and fencer Sam Catantan.
