Filipino boxer Carlo Paalam demonstrated "excellent performance" after capturing the silver medal in the Tokyo Olympics, according to Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar.
Andanar said Paalam has brought honor and pride to the country following his silver medal finish at this year's Olympics.
"Maraming salamat, Carlo Paalam! Isang karangalan sa bansa ang iyong nakamit na Silver medal sa Olympics (Thank you very much, Carlo Paalam! Your silver medal in the Olympics brings honor to the country)," Andanar said in a statement Saturday, August 7.
"As a fellow Kagay-anon, you’ve not only represented our country but our region (Northern Mindanao region) as well! We’re all very proud of you and your excellent performance in the Men’s Flyweight Boxing Competition," he said.
Paalam took home the silver medal in the men's flyweight division in the Tokyo Games, pushing the country's medal tally to four. The 23-year-old boxer grew up in poverty but overcame hurdles to fulfill his Olympic dream.
Andanar said Paalam remains a source of inspiration for Filipino athletes following his display of "determination" and "heart" for the country.
"Ang iyong panalo ay panalo ng lahat ng mga Pilipino at ng buong Pilipinas! (Your triumph is a triumph for all Filipinos and the entire Philippines)," the Palace official told Paalam.
Bianca and Yuka made nation proud too
The country's two lady golfers have also been commended by Andanar for their "solid performance" in the Tokyo Olympics.
Andanar congratulated Bianca Pagdanganan and Yuka Saso after displaying their impressive talent at the women's golf competition. Saso landed ninth place while Pagdanganan ranked 43rd in this year's Olympics.
"Both of you didn’t only display our known qualities of grit and determination, but also our Filipino spirit of sportsmanship and excellence," Andanar said.
"Maraming salamat sa pagpapakilala sa buong mundo ng talentong Pilipino di lamang sa Olympics, pati na rin sa iba’t ibang international golf competitions! (Thank you for showing the world the Filipino talent not only in the Olympics but in other international golf competitions) We are all very proud of you!" he said.