PSC remains supportive of PH Paralympic team amid Covid-19 scare

MANILA – The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) has reiterated its continuing support to the Philippine team at the Tokyo Paralympics despite a huge blow to its campaign before the start of the event.

Some members of the delegation, that include a para-athlete, several coaches, and other officials, have tested positive for the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) and, according to a person knowledgeable of the recent events, were asked to stay here and not proceed to the Japanese capital.

“The PSC, as always, will continue to support our delegation to the Tokyo Olympics. The PSC team included in the secretariat led by Commissioner Arnold Agustin remains intact and will continue to give support where we can,” PSC Chief of Staff Marc Velasco said on Sunday night.

Those who were cleared to go have already arrived in Tokyo ahead of the opening ceremonies on Tuesday.

But Velasco said the PSC will continue to look at the health status of the Philippine team.

“Team physician and Covid liaison officer Dra. Janis De Vera has assured us that we will continue to monitor the remaining delegation members, making sure that we will comply with the Tokyo Paralympics playbook,” he said.

Meanwhile, Philippine Paralympic Committee president Mike Barredo remains optimistic about the national team’s chances despite now being just five-athlete strong.

“Despite this setback, we are confident that our athletes will give their best in the pursuit of their Paralympic dreams and to bring honor and glory to our country,” Barredo said.

Initially listed to the Philippine team were wheelchair racer Jerrold Mangliwan, discus thrower Jeanette Aceveda, para swimmers Ernie Gawilan and Gary Bejino, para taekwondo jin Allain Ganapin, and powerlifter Achelle Guion.

The Tokyo Paralympics will run until Sept. 5. (PNA)

Agencies