'The nation stands behind you': Romualdez hails Pinoy athletes competing in Paris Olympics
At A Glance
- House Speaker Martin Romualdez on Monday, July 29, extended his well wishes and congratulations to the 22 Filipino athletes who are currently competing in the 2024 Paris Olympics.
House Speaker Martin Romualdez (Speaker’s office)
House Speaker Martin Romualdez on Monday, July 29, extended his well wishes and congratulations to the 22 Filipino athletes who are currently competing in the 2024 Paris Olympics.
In a statement, Romualdez said the athletes comprising Team Philippines are already winners in the hearts and minds of their compatriots.
“Ipinagmamalaki namin kayo at nagpapasalamat sa inyong pakikipagtagisan ng galing laban sa pinakamagagaling na atleta sa buong mundo,” the House leader said.
(We are proud of you and thank you for competing against the best athletes in the world.)
“As you compete, know that your entire nation stands behind you, cheering for your success and celebrating your journey,” he added.
Romualdez said the the House of Representatives remains committed to supporting the country’s athletes and recognizing their immense potential and talent.
“We are dedicated to providing the necessary resources and support to help you excel on the world stage,” he continued.
“Hindi lamang karangalan at papuri ang hatid ng atletang Pinoy sa ating mga kababayan sa buong mundo, dala din nila ang inspirasyon sa bawat kabataang Pilipino na nais magpunyagi at sumabak sa pandaigdigang laban sa palakasan,” he further said.
(Not only do Filipino athletes bring honor and praise to our countrymen around the world, they also bring inspiration to every Filipino youth who wants to strive and compete in international sports.)
The 22 athletes representing the Philippines hope to match or even surpass the country’s best performance in the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, wherein they brought home four medals including the historic first-ever gold medal for the Philippines by Hidilyn Diaz in the women's 55-kilogram category in weightlifting.
Although Olympic gold medalist Diaz did not qualify for the Paris Olympics, the Philippine delegation inducted the three other medalists in the Tokyo Olympics: boxers Eumir Marcial (bronze), Nesthy Petecio (silver) and Carlo Paalam (silver).
They are joined by gymnast Carlos Edriel Yulo, pole vaulter EJ Obiena, rower Joanie Delgaco, boxers Aira Villegas and Hergie Bacyadan, hurdlers Lauren Hoffman and John Cabang Tolentino, swimmers Kayla Sanchez and Jarrod Hatch, gymnast Aleah Finnegan, fencer Samantha Catantan, and 15 other Filipino Olympians.
“Your stories of sacrifice and triumph serve as powerful reminders to all hopeful Filipinos of what can be accomplished when one pushes their limits,” Romualdez said.
“You carry with you the hopes and dreams of an entire nation, and we are confident that you will represent the Philippines with honor and dignity. We look forward to celebrating your successes in Paris!“ he emphasized.