Discus thrower Jeanette Aceveda withdraws from Paralympics after testing positive for COVID-19

Filipino para athlete Jeanette Aceveda is withdrawing from the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics after testing positive for COVID-19.

In a statement released on Sunday, the Philippine Paralympic Committee (PPC) said Aceveda and her coach Bernard Buen tested positive for COVID-19 and will be brought to a quarantine facility outside of the Tokyo Paralympic Village.

"Jeanette is greatly disappointed that she will have to withdraw from her event scheduled for August 31, 2021. Although she would not be able to fulfill her dream to compete in the Paralympics and represent the Philippines, Jeanette still hopes there will be more chances for her to make this dream come true in the future," the PPC said.

Despite the setback, the PPC said it is more determined to 'achieve Paralympic success and glory for our country.'

Aceveda is the second athlete to withdraw from the Paralympics after power lifter Achele Guion also tested positive for the coronavirus.

Only four Philippine athletes remain in contention for a medal in the Tokyo Paralympics.

—Justin Kenneth Carandang/JMB, GMA News