President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos, Jr. led the send-off ceremony for Filipino athletes heading to the 2024 Paris Olympics and Paralympics on Friday at the Ayuntamiento in Intramuros, Manila. The event also marked the Philippines' 100th anniversary of Olympic participation.
In his speech, President Marcos emphasized the significance of the athletes' role in inspiring the nation.
"To our athletes: You carry our hopes and dreams to Paris. You also carry with you the banner of our nation that believes in you, stands proudly beside you, celebrates your every triumph, and is with you through any obstacle," said Marcos. "Whether in the boxing ring, on the gymnastics floor, sculling in rowing, or in any area that you compete in, you exemplify the very best of what it means to be a Filipino — we are competitive, courageous, and determined. But we do it with a smile on our face. As you step onto the global stage, hold our flag high and show the world what a Filipino is made of. We believe in you. We are proud of you. And we will be with you every step of this remarkable journey."
Marcos highlighted his administration's efforts in developing sports infrastructure, such as rehabilitating the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex and the PhilSports Complex, and constructing the National Academy of Sports System in Tarlac and the Philippine Sports Training Center in Bataan. He also instructed the Office of the Executive Secretary to ensure that the Philippine Sports Commission receives the necessary funds to support the athletes' preparation and participation in the Summer Games.
Some of the Olympians present at the ceremony included flag bearers Carlo Paalam and Nesthy Petecio, boxers Hergie Bacyadan and Aira Villegas, gymnast Carlos Yulo, rower Joanie Delgaco, and weightlifters Elreen Ando, Vanessa Sarno, and John Ceniza. Several athletes are set to leave early Saturday morning to begin their training camp in France.
As of now, 15 athletes from the Philippines have officially qualified for the Paris Olympics.
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