The Tokyo Olympics drew to a close Sunday, Aug. 8, in what is considered a peculiar but momentous staging of the Games hampered by the pandemic. But equally momentous was the Philippines’ historic showing in the two-week conclave, where the 19-strong Filipino athletes went home with a best performance of one gold, two silvers and one bronze medal. Boxing silver medalist Nesthy Petecio carried the Philippine flag in her tracksuit during the more relaxed and festive closing ceremony as participants celebrated sportsmanship and camaraderie before an almost empty stadium. Organizers treated the participants with a light show of flag colors blended in to become the Olympics rings accompanied by fireworks, as well as a traditional Japanese tribute to the fans who couldn’t be there due to pandemic restrictions. Then came the passing of the baton to Paris, which will host the Games in three year’s time. Nonong Araneta, the country’s chief of mission to the Games, lauded not only the organizers but also the entire country of Japan for embracing the Olympics in times of adversities. People of Japan initially protested to cancel the Games due to pandemic threats, but Araneta said the people rallied behind to make sure that the Games becomes successful once it started. “The Japanese people were really behind the Olympics once it started. In spite of adversities, they are a nation. They supported the Olympics,” Araneta said. People on social media also commended Japan’s successful hosting of the Games, even noting that they couldn’t think of a better nation to organize the Olympics during such unprecedented times. “They were very strict, organized and quick to respond. We felt safe covering the Olympic Games. Arigato, Japan!” TV host Gretchen Ho, who was part of the PH broadcasting team in the Games, wrote on Twitter. And as the fire on the cauldron was extinguished to signal the end of the competition, participants carry a lesson of hope beyond sports. “In these difficult times, you gave the world the most precious of gifts: Hope,” said International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach in a speech, addressing host Japan. “For the first time since the pandemic began, the entire world came together. The Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 are the Olympic Games of hope, solidarity and peace.”