Marcos to Pinoy Paralympians: You are already champions

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. on Thursday extended his support to the six Filipino athletes representing the country in the 2024 Paris Paralympics Games. 

"Your commitment to your training as elite athletes, despite the challenges you face, exemplifies the spirit of the Filipino people," Marcos said in a statement. 

He said that all of them are already champions in the eyes of the entire nation. 

"No accolade, praise, or reward can truly return the pride you bring to our country. As you take on the world stage at the Paralympics, remember that the whole nation is with you, supporting you every step of the way," he added. 

Marcos further asked the Paralympians Allain Keanu Ganapin, Angel Mae Otom, Agustina Maximo Bantiloc, Cendy Asusano, Ernie Gawilan, and Jerrold Pete Mangliwan, to "compete with the heart of Filipino warriors and show the world the strength of our people." 

The country's Paralympics delegation left on August 11 for Paris for the games to be held from August 28 to September 8.

The Paralympic Games opened more than two weeks after the Paris Olympics came to a close, which saw the Philippines taking home two gold medals courtesy of gymnast Carlos Yulo and two bronze medals from boxers Aira Villegas and Nesthy Petecio.

The Philippines was bannered by 22 athletes in the Summer Games.—Sherylin Untalan/LDF, GMA Integrated News