Two Filipino athletes who participated in the Tokyo Olympics have received praises from Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar.
According to Andanar, boxer Nesthy Petecio and pole vaulter Ernest John Obiena have brought honor and pride to the country following their inspiring performance at the Olympics.
Petecio scored a silver medal finish after yielding to her Japanese opponent in the women's featherweight final round in Tokyo Tuesday. She gave the Philippines its second Olympic medal of the Tokyo Games following the historic gold medal earned by weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz.
Obiena bowed out of medal contention after failing to clear 5.89 meter mark after three attempts. He finished 11th in the men's pole vault competition.
Andanar first congratulated Petecio on her "remarkable performance" in the boxing competition at the Tokyo Games. "With her silver medal win, she has helped further our nation in achieving new records in this division. Mabuhay ka, Nesthy! We are all proud of you," he said.
To Obiena, Andanar said the nation remains proud of his "admirable performance" at the men's pole vault competition.
"Your exemplification of the Filipino spirit and sportsmanship did not only bring historic success to our nation, but also greatly inspired us to lift each others’ spirits during these tough times," he said.
"Nakakahanga ang pinakita mong world-class talent. Hindi ka man pinalad mag-uwi ng medalya, panalo ka pa rin sa puso ng bawat Pilipino! (The world-class talent you've shown is impressive. You were unable to bring home a medal but you're still a winner in the heart of every Filipino)," he said.