A Cebuana clinched three medals in table tennis in the 2^nd South East Asian (SEA) Deaf Games in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Ella Venice Punay, 24 years old, from the City of Talisay, snagged a gold medal in the women’s doubles, silver medal in women’s singles, and bronze medal in mixed doubles.

Ella, a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) student at the University of San Jose-Recoletos, said that her participation to the 2^nd SEA Deaf Games in August 2025 is her first international game, and that she is the lone Cebuana in the team of delegates.

She narrated that her interest in table tennis has sprung when she was just 12 years old. She started as a spectator, and on to becoming a “ball person." From being able to collect and return used balls, she was given the chance to play.

Being a member of the deaf community is quite a challenge, but Ella said that competing in table tennis matches has given her confidence and hope in life. It drives her to aspire for more.

Ella is set on joining the next Asian Games and Deaf Olympics.

“Thank you People of San Jose, Josenians and everyone who supported me along the way! I’m beyond grateful to bring home these medals for our community and our country. Adelante!” Ella said through her social media account.