Romualdez issues message to PH Asiad athletes: 'Thank you'
At A Glance
- House Speaker Martin Romualdez commended on Sunday, Oct. 8 the Filipino athletes who participated in the just-concluded 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, saying they "showcased the country's potential as a competitive force in international sports".
EJ Obiena
House Speaker Martin Romualdez commended on Sunday, Oct. 8 the Filipino athletes who participated in the just-concluded 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, saying they "showcased the country’s potential as a competitive force in international sports".
With this, the leader of the 300-plus strong House of Representatives vowed to continue his support for local sport development .
“The achievements of the Philippine delegation, including securing medals and setting new records, demonstrate the dedication, hard work, and excellence of our athletes. Their success is a testament to the resilience and talent of Filipino sportsmen and sportswomen,” Romualdez said in a statement.
“Sports has the power to unite a nation, and our athletes have certainly united us through their outstanding achievements. I am committed to furthering sports development in the Philippines to nurture future champions,” he said.
“The 19th Asian Games have once again showcased the country’s potential as a competitive force in international sports. I am confident that this success will inspire future generations of Filipino athletes,” added the Leyte 1st district congressman.
The Philippines bagged four gold medals in the quadrennial meet, thanks to the outstanding performances of pole vaulter Ernest John "EJ" Obiena; jiu-jitsu martial artists Meggie Ochoa and Annie Ramirez; and Gilas Pilipinas, which put an end to the nation’s 61-year title drought in men’s basketball.
The country also secured two silver medals, earned by boxer Eumir Marcial and Wushu sanda fighter Arnel Mandal. There were also 12 bronze medal winners from the Philippine side.
The Philippines finished 16th place overall, marking a modest improvement from its 18th-place finish in the Jakarta Games five years ago. The nation also won four gold medals in 2018.
“This success wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication and hard work of our athletes and the support team behind them. We thank each member of the delegation for their commitment to excellence,” the Speaker said.
He also recognized the crucial role played by the business sector, private organizations, and individuals who provided vital support, including financial assistance and resources, to ensure the delegation's competitiveness.