Rousing start for the Filipinos.
One day after the solemn opening ceremony and colorful parade of nations, the Philippines is already making a splash at the ASEAN Para Games (APG) by having three first-place finishes right away.
The auspicious kickoff for the Filipinos transpired in the men’s 400m freestyle S6 on Sunday morning as Gary Bejino displayed his superiority over the representatives of other nations. Clocking in at 5:38.26, the elite paraswimmer won the Philippines its first gold medal, while also setting a new APG record.
Following Bejino’s lead was Ernie Gawilan. At the men’s 400m freestyle S7 final, Gawilan dominated his rivals en route to claiming gold with a time of 4:58.78.
The women of the Philippine contingent made sure that they would their get their share of the wealth. Cendy Asusano brought home the country's gold medal as she conquered the women’s shot put F54 event.
As of this writing, sitting on top of the country rankings is Indonesia with three gold medals and two silvers. Philippines is second with three golds, a silver, and three bronze medals.
The 12th edition of the ASEAN Para Games is set to conclude on June 9.
(GM)