Dubai: The Philippines wrapped up a strong campaign at the Asian Youth Para Games, which concluded Sunday in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. While the official overall medal tally is still being finalized as of posting time, Filipino athletes collected eight gold, 14 silver, and eight bronze medals. This haul marked a substantial improvement from the country’s one gold, one silver, and two bronze finish at the 2021 edition in Manama, Bahrain.
According to Philippines News Agency, Philippine Paralympic Committee (PPC) president Michael Barredo expressed pride in the athletes, stating, “I’m very proud of them because we have outdone our medal tally in Bahrain more than five times.” He emphasized the potential of the youth program and the promising future of para sports in the country, noting that the progress made is a positive indicator of the direction the program is headed.
The swimming team, coached by Tony and Brian Ong, played a pivotal role in the success, securing six gold, six silver, and two bronze medals. Notable performances came from Ric Daniel Pasadilla, Mary Hannah Diesto, Raemond Adefuin, Zach Lucas Obsioma, and Bladimir Sebastian Gonzales. Pasadilla, a 13-year-old student from Pototan National Comprehensive High School in Iloilo, emerged as a standout performer with three golds, one silver, and one bronze in various swimming events.
The athletics team also contributed significantly with two gold medals won by John Rey Diano and RJ Brucal in their respective long jump events. Additionally, the team collected five silvers and two bronzes across various track and field disciplines, demonstrating the depth of talent within the athletics contingent.
In table tennis, Lhey Manginsay earned a silver medal in the women’s U23 singles, while her teammates Ramces Tuala, Barge Caba±ero, and the mixed doubles pair of Tuala and Manginsay added bronze medals to the tally. Further success came in boccia, badminton, and archery, with athletes securing additional silver and bronze medals for the Philippine team.
Barredo highlighted the role of the Palarong Pambansa in identifying talent, advocating for more para sports to be included in national competitions to foster the development of athletes capable of achieving medals for the Philippines. He praised the work of coaches nationwide for their dedication to nurturing young para athletes, which has resulted in growing awareness and development of para sports across the country.
