A wave of celebration washed over the 26 Filipino athletes who recently returned from the 3rd Asian Youth Games in Manama, Bahrain. Their dedication and skill weren't just rewarded with medals, but with a generous outpouring of support as an early Christmas gift.
The Philippine Sports Commission, recognizing the significance of their achievements, announced substantial cash prizes. Each gold medalist will receive half a million pesos, while silver medalists are set to receive three hundred thousand, and bronze medalists one hundred thousand.
The atmosphere was buoyant during a celebratory lunch hosted by the Philippine Olympic Committee. PSC Chair Patrick Gregorio emphasized the unifying power of sports, stating simply, “Win or lose, sports is good.”
Adding to the rewards, the POC President, Abraham Tolentino, announced plans to supplement the PSC’s prizes. Athletes will also receive a brand new iPhone 17, a gesture of gratitude for representing the nation with pride.
The Philippines, represented by a team of 140 athletes, secured a commendable 12th place overall in the games. Their impressive haul included seven gold, seven silver, and ten bronze medals – a testament to their rigorous training and unwavering spirit.
Muay Thai athlete Jan Brix Ramiscal stands to receive the largest reward, having clinched a gold in the mixed team Mai Muay alongside Tyron Jamborillo, and a silver in the boys’ Wai Kru 16-17 event. His performance exemplifies the dedication shown by the entire team.
Pi Durden Wangkay’s speed in the boys’ 200m, Isabella Butler’s skill in jiujitsu, Charlie Ratcliff’s prowess in mixed martial arts, and the striking power of Zeth Gabriel Bueno and Lyre Anie Ngina in Muay Thai all contributed to the gold medal count.
Kram Airam Carpio’s artistry in pencak silat completed the list of gold medalists, each athlete etching their name into the nation’s sporting history. Their victories ignited national pride and inspired a new generation of athletes.
Naomi Cesar (athletics), Travis Ratcliff (mma), Jamesray Ajido (swimming), Kristel Ambriel Aguila (taekwondo), and Jhodie Peralta (weightlifting) secured silver medals, demonstrating remarkable skill and determination in their respective disciplines.
The bronze medalists – Leo Mhar Lobrido (boxing), Mara-Alexandria Sarinas (jiu-jitsu), Alexander Tagure, Jr. (mma), Iyeshia Blair Bituin (muay), Aeden Roffer Cereño (taekwondo), Crystal Cariño and Nicole Tabucol (teqball), and a trio of weightlifters – Jay-R Colonia, Alexandra Ann Diaz, and Princess Jay Ann Diaz – all contributed to the Philippines’ overall success.
