Pinay athletes 'empowered, respected, recognized' in 2018 Asian Games - Pangilinan

Congratulations to all athletes and medalists, especially our women champions, for a great fight at the 2018 Asian Games.

With 4 golds, 2 silvers, and 15 bronzes under our belt, this is the Philippines' best showing since 2006. It is made even more notable when 15 of the 25 medalists are women, truly proving the grace and strength of the Filipina. This is where women should be - empowered, respected, and recognized for their worth and abilities. Not disrespected by blatant misogyny especially from public officials.

While we are celebrating, it is also important to understand the results of this Asian Games. Given the failure to achieve the Top 15 finish target of the Philippines Sports Commission, where is the room for improvement? How can we better assist our athletes? Was the government able to provide support, not only during the Games, but also for the campaign toward it? Are our sports programs still up to date and is able to make the Philippine athlete be more competitive?

They say women hold up half the sky. In the 2018 Asian Games, Filipino women athletes carried more than half at three-fifths. Congratulations once again, at mabuhay ang mga atletang Pilipino!