EJ Obiena pledges P250K PSC reward for world championships bronze to ailing Lydia de Vega

Filipino Olympian and pole vault world no. 3 EJ Obiena on Thursday pledged to give his P250,000 reward from the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) to ailing Filipina sprinter Lydia de Vega.

In a Facebook post on Thursday, Obiena thanked those who supported him following his historic World Athletics Championship bronze medal and paid tribute to De Vega, an icon of Philippine track and field.

"I am also here today because I am standing on the shoulders of giants. The legends of Philippines Athletics who paved a way for me. Who brought attention and success to athletics. I owe them a debt of gratitude," Obiena wrote. "I thank them for the route they have forged for us competing today."

"[Thirty-nine] years ago, was the first-ever World Championships in 1983. Our leading participant in those inaugural World Championships was the legendary Lydia De Vega," he continued.

Obiena, who is set to receive a cash reward from the PSC after his achievements in the World Championship, said that De Vega needs the money more than he does for her medical expenses.

De Vega is suffering from complications brought by Stage 4 breast cancer. Philippine president Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos, Jr. has directed the PSC to extend assistance to De Vega.

"I am deeply saddened by the news of Mam Lydia's health issues, and the pleas of her family for financial assistance for the mounting medical bills. I have met Mam Lydia in Singapore on many occasions, and she has always been [a] kind, supportive and loving individual," Obiena said.

The pole vaulter also said his advisor and nutritionist, James and Carol Lafferty, will also pledge the same amount for De Vega.

"We hope this makes a difference and gives Mam Lydia added strength to battle this horrible disease. God bless you and give you strength Mam Lydia," Obiena said.

—Justin Kenneth Carandang/MGP, GMA News