JERROLD Mangliwan and Cendy Asusano, two of the most bemedalled Philippine bets in the athletics meet of the 2023 ASEAN Para Games in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, could find themselves in Paris next month.
Mangliwan and Asusano have earned slots in the 2023 World Para Athletics Championships this July in Paris and have been recommended by their coach Joel Deriada.
Deriada said during Sunday’s festivities, courtesy of sponsors Wrist_Pod 5, Throws For All and EdObee Sports, celebrating the victory of the Philippine para athletics team in Phnom Penh, that he hopes that organizers will still be able to accept their entries despite delays in the submission of requirements.
“We hope that they can still go. We have asked for an extension for them,” said Deriada, with the tournament slated from July 8 to 23 at the Charlety Stadium.
The 43-year-old Mangliwan, who is into wheelchair racing, ended his campaign in Phnom Penh with golds in the 200-meter and 400-meter runs of the T52 class for those with polio.
Asusano delivered three medals, two golds in the women’s shot put and javelin throw F54 categories, to go with a bronze in the discus throw.
Their efforts added up to the Philippines overall strong showing of 34 gold medal, 33 silvers, and 50 bronzes.
This was better than last year’s 28-30-46 performance in Hanoi.
As for athletics, Deriada said the Philippines also did better with their 10-10-11 haul.
“Compared to other Para Games, maganda ang result, and that’s from last year’s 6 golds, four silvers and four bronzes,” said Deriada.
Newly-appointed PPC secretary general Goody Custodio said he finds the Philippines’ overall medal collection truly inspiring.
“Nag-improve ang medal standing natin, compared to last year. Nakasama ko sila sa Athletes’ Village. I saw how they trained and encouraged each other, and how they looked out for one another. The camaraderie was great,” said Custodio.