TAGUIG CITY – On National Heroes’ Day, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. honored the six Filipino athletes participating in the upcoming 2024 Paris Paralympic Games, which begin on August 28, lauding them as a “symbol of hope” for the nation. The ceremony took place at the Libingan ng mga Bayani (Heroes Cemetery) in Taguig City.
According to Philippines News Agency, these athletes represent the essence of heroism through their representation of the Philippines on an international stage. He highlighted their extraordinary strength and dedication, noting that despite their disabilities, their ability to compete at such high levels offers hope and national pride to all Filipinos. The President praised the Paralympians for their unmatchable contributions to the country, which transcend awards and public acclaim.
The President emphasized the unseen struggles these athletes endure, including rigorous daily training, injury risks, and financial constraints. He acknowledged the personal sacrifices they make to achieve greatness, describing them as modern heroes who uplift their communities and preserve national heritage. These stories of perseverance, Marcos pointed out, demonstrate that heroism is within everyone’s reach.
The Filipino delegation to the Paralympics includes track and field athletes Jerrold Mangliwan and Cendy Asusano, swimmers Ernie Gawilan and Angel Mae Otom, taekwondo jin Allain Ganapin, and archer Agustina Bantiloc. They aim to build on the Philippines’ strong performance at the recently concluded Summer Olympic Games.