Filipino athletes are setting their sights on surpassing their historic medal haul from the Tokyo 2020 Olympics as they gear up for the Paris 2024 Games. The Philippines achieved an unprecedented four medals in Tokyo, including its first-ever gold.
Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) President Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino is confident that the team will exceed their previous performance. “Definitely, we will surpass the Tokyo record,” he stated earlier this month before returning to Paris to oversee the national team’s preparations.
In Tokyo, Hidilyn Diaz secured the nation’s first gold in the women’s 55kg weightlifting category. Although Diaz didn’t qualify for Paris, Elreen Ando will represent the Philippines in the new weight division. Other returning medalists include boxers Eumir Marcial, Nesthy Petecio, and Carlo Paalam, all aiming to improve on their Tokyo achievements.
Gymnast Carlos Edriel Yulo and pole vaulter EJ Obiena, who have both excelled internationally, are also key contenders. Obiena, a member of the elite six-meter club and an Asian Games gold medalist, aims for a podium finish despite a challenging preparation. Yulo, a former world champion, looks to bounce back from a disappointing Tokyo performance with recent successes in the FIG World Cup and Asian Championships.
The Philippines’ delegation for Paris includes 22 athletes competing in nine sports, the largest since the 1992 Barcelona Games. The campaign kicks off on July 27 with rower Joanie Delgaco in the women’s single sculls. Before the competition starts, boxers Petecio and Paalam will carry the Philippine flag at the opening ceremony on July 26, a historic event taking place along the River Seine.
Joining the athletes are sports officials and coaches, all committed to supporting the team in their quest to make history. As the athletes prepare to compete, hopes are high that the Philippines will once again achieve remarkable success on the Olympic stage.