EJ Obiena has pledged to give his incentives to track legend Lydia de Vega who is currently battling breast cancer.
In a social media post, Obiena decided to pay it forward by donating the P250,000 incentive that he would receive from the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) for breaking the Asian record.
Obiena also said his advisers Jim and Carol Lafferty is matching his donation, making his team to donate a total of P500,000
“I have just learned of the plans of PSC to reward me with 250,000 pesos incentive for breaking the Asian Record. This is deeply appreciated, and certainly needed since my funding is still yet to be sorted, despite the mediation agreement,” Obiena said.
“However, on the flight back to Italy, it occurred to me that despite my own training needs, Mam Lydia needs this money more than I do. So, I am hereby pledging to gift these 250,000 pesos once paid, directly to the family of Lydia De Vega for her medical expenses.”
Obiena said he owed it to the greats like de Vega for the success he is achieving now.
“I am also here today because I am standing on the shoulders of giants. The legends of Philippines Athletics who paved a way for me. Who brought attention and success to athletics. I owe them a debt of gratitude. I thank them for the route they have forged for us competing today,” Obiena said.