MANILA — President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday led the send-off rites for Filipino athletes bound for the 18th Asian Games in Indonesia.
In his speech, Duterte reminded the athletes that their goal is not only to win for themselves but to carry the pride of the entire Filipino nation.
“As we send our best men and women to the 18th Asian Games, remember that you do not only compete for yourselves, but also carry with you the pride of your families, your communities, and the entire Filipino nation,” Duterte said.
“I join the Filipino people in wishing you all the best as you uphold the values of integrity, resilience and sportsmanship in your pursuit of the gold,” he added.
He urged them to “do your best and that you do it fair and square”.
“In return, trust that we in government will continue to support the development of our athletes and intensify our commitment towards sports excellence, global competitiveness and the greater glory of your country, the Philippines,” the President said.
“Every victory you bring back home is shared by the entire nation. We pray for your well-being and hope that your successful trip — and also a safe return to the country,” he added.
Philippine Olympic Committee president Ricky Vargas presented to the President the “gallant” 272 athletes who will represent the Philippines in the quadrennial event slated from Aug. 18 to September 2.
“I’m honored to present to you Mr. President our nation’s gallant athletes who will proudly compete and fight for flag and country in 2018 Asian Games,” Vargas said.
Weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz, a silver medalist in the 2016 Rio Olympics, led the invocation where she thanked God for giving them the opportunity to represent the country.
Philippine contingent Chef de Mission and Ormoc City Mayor Richard Gomez presented a tracksuit to the President.
Clad in their dark-colored tracksuits, the Filipino athletes gamely did Duterte’s signature fist as they posed in batches for a photo opportunity with the President inside the Rizal Hall of Malacañang Palace.
The country is hoping to surpass the country’s performance of one gold medal, three silvers, and 11 bronzes in the 2014 meet in Incheon, South Korea.
The Filipino athletes will participate in 35 different sports, including basketball where the Philippines nearly failed to send a team.
The 2018 Asian Games will be held in the cities of Jakarta and Palembang, marking the first time in the history of the Asian Games that two cities will host the multi-sports event.