Fresh from her stint at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Bicolana Olympian Joanie Delgaco was welcomed warmly by her family and community upon her arrival at the Naga Airport.

Delgaco represented the Philippines in rowing where she secured a 20th place finish. 

The emotional reunion was particularly poignant as it marked the first time in two years that Joanie had seen her family, having been away for extensive training in preparation for the Olympics.

“Di siya makauwi dahil [gawa ng] practice talaga, halos hindi ko na mapigilan parang naluluha na ako sa saya,” Bernardo Delgaco, Joanie’s father, said.

Outside the airport, Joanie was greeted like a celebrity, with her hometown of Iriga City organizing a hero’s welcome and motorcade in her honor. 

The streets were lined with supporters, some dancing with joy while others waved Philippine and Olympic flags in celebration of her achievements.

“Congrats po sa kanya, napaka galing na po,” Angel, a resident, said.

The strong support from her family and community serves as a powerful inspiration for Joanie as she looks forward to future competitions. 

Reflecting on the outpouring of love, Joanie said, “Naramdaman ko po yung support nila sa akin, babawi po ako sa next Olympics sa Los Angeles.”

Meanwhile, the provincial government of Camarines Sur has promised incentives for the Olympian. 

“Gusto namin personal gift — kakausapin po natin yung Sangguniang Panlalawigan kung makakabigay po tayo ng incentives and congratulations sa ating Bicolana na taga Camarines Sur na Olympian,” Governor Luigi Villafuerte said.

Joanie’s journey continues to inspire her hometown, and the nation, as she sets her sights on the Los Angeles Olympics.