Senate lauds Pinoy powerlifters for medal haul at 2022 Southeast Asian Cup

The Senate on Monday adopted a resolution congratulating the Powerlifting Association of the Philippines for their latest medal haul in the 2022 Southeast Asian Cup held in Johor Baru, Malaysia.

In his co-sponsorship speech, Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva said the Philippine team clinched a total of 78 medals.

Of the said number, the men's team won 23 gold medals, 13 silver medals, and 13 bronze medals.

Meanwhile, the women's team bagged 21 gold medals, four silver medals, and four bronze medals.

Apart from winning medals, Villanueva said the Philippine team set 10 new Asian records.

The Senate honored the following athletes who participated in the recent tourney:

• Rafael Renzo Cahilig
• Nestor Redulla Jr.
• Francis Oliver Retardo
• Emilio Lorenzo Florendo
• James Emmanuel Sy
• Ross Emanuel Teodosio
• Maphi Daniel Polvora
• Jalen Cytienne Cruz
• Lance Gabriel Laquian
• Rhodison Jay Esmundo
• Merwin Torres
• Joyce Gail Reboton
• Ma. Angelica Savillo
• Jeremy Reign Bautista
• Christine Erine Alejandro
• Charlene Raye Tugade
• April Iris Williams
• Rikki Dianne Saul
• Jeremy Reign Bautista
• Bea Piedad

"We are incredibly proud of this historic feat, and we join our colleagues in congratulating and commending our athletes for bringing pride and honor to the country," said Villanueva.

"We also extend our congratulations to their coaches, their families, and all the members and staff of the Powerlifting Association of the Philippines."

"We are confident that our athletes will continue this winning streak, as we are now considered 'one of the strongest teams in Asia,'" he added, noting that the Senate had augmented the Philippine Sports Commission's budget.

In the Upper Chamber's version of the 2023 national budget, the PSC's allocation increased to P2.327 billion from 2022's P725.238 million.

Senate Sports Committee chairman Bong Go likewise congratulated the athletes, saying their accomplishments was a source of encouragement and inspiration.

"This goes to show that despite the challenges we are facing, and the humbling experience this pandemic has brought upon each of us, we continue to strive harder and soar to greater heights. Your sacrifice and commitment truly serve as an inspiration for all of us," Go said.

"Ang diskarte, tapang, at galing na inyong ipinamalas ay nagbigay ng malaking karangalan sa bansa. Tunay na kahanga-hanga ang pagpupursige ng ating mga Pilipinong atleta, kaya naman nararapat lamang po na sila ay patuloy nating suportahan at tularan. Of course, I also give recognition to our coaching staff and trainers. You are vital pieces of our athletes’ success," he added. — DVM, GMA Integrated News