PHNOM PENH, Cambodia—Emotions ran high from John Ivan Cruz after capturing the gold medal in floor exercise of the men’s artistic gymnastics in the 32^nd Southeast Asian Games here.

John Ivan Cruz (SEAG media pool)

For the 21-year-old Cruz, winning his biggest tournament in his career so far meant finally being able to financially provide for his family.

“Financial po kasi yung problema ko eh. Ngayon, sa panalo kong ito, masasabi ko po na kaya ko na silang buhayin,” said a teary-eyed Cruz, the eldest of seven children of a sari-sari store vendor and a pedicab driver.

Under the Athletes Incentive Act, Cruz stands to receive P300,000 for winning the gold medal. He is also entitled a share of the P150,000 cash bonus as part of the men’s team event that won the silver medal.

Cruz, a second cousin of two-time world champion Carlos Yulo, said he took the risk of returning to the national team again for this reason.

“Nagpapasalamat ako at nabigyan ulit ako ng opportunity na maging part ng national team. Sa sobrang hirap ng buhay, pinagsikapan ko po ito kaya hindi ko po sasayangin,” said Cruz.