Two athletes from Dagupan City brought pride to their hometown after winning bronze medals in different events at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand, highlighting years of hard work, discipline, and strong community support.

Karateka John Matthew Manantan, who started training at a young age, secured a bronze medal in the men’s 67-kilogram karate event after facing an opponent from Singapore. This marked his third appearance in the SEA Games. He earlier won a silver medal during the 2023 SEA Games in Cambodia.

Manantan’s mother, Hilda Manantan, recalled how karate helped her son grow as a child.

“Noong nai-enrol ko siya sa karate, doon siya nag-grow. Lahat ng suporta, binibigay ko sa kanya. Kahit natatakot ako, kasi nakita ko siya kung paano masaktan,” she said.

His mentor, Dr. Alejandro Enrico Vasquez, said Manantan showed strong passion and determination in the sport.

“Since hinawakan ko siya, andun ‘yung pagmamahal niya sa sports, tapos pagdating sa kompetisyon andun ‘yung champion heart,” he said.

Manantan said winning at the SEA Games was a proud and emotional moment for him.

“Naranasan ko na rin manalo. Naging pride ko na taga-Dagupan ako at ako’y champion. Sobrang overwhelming, masaya dahil maraming na-inspire sa story natin,” he said.

Another Dagupan athlete, Susan Ramadan, also won a bronze medal after placing third in the women’s 1,500-meter running event. The 21-year-old runner is from Barangay Bonuan Gueset and finished junior high school at Bonuan Boquig National High School.

One of her coaches, Francis Mararac, said the school and community are proud of her achievement.

“We are all proud of her. Overwhelm kami sa kasiyahan sa part ng eskwelahan at sa buong komunidad ng Bonuan Boquig National High School,” he said.

Officials and residents said the achievements of Manantan and Ramadan show that with discipline and perseverance, young athletes can reach their dreams and succeed on the international stage.