THE local delegation to the 7th National Para Games held in Malolos, Bulacan from May 23 to 30 harvested 14 medals in various sports competitions proving that disability is not an obstacle to success.
The medalists formed part of the Philippine Sports Association for Differently-abled (Philspada)-Zamboanga City Chapter, whose participation in the national sports competition was made possible with the support of the city government through the Persons with Disabilities Unit (PDAU) under the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO).
CSWDO chief Socorro Rojas, said they include Muhaimin Ulag, who won two gold medals in swimming (50 and 100 meters); Marites Abon, one gold medal in 100 meters swimming; Ronnie Alico, one Bronze Medal (400 meters Freestyle Swimming) and one Silver Medal (100 meters swimming); Joseph Gregana, three silver medals in standard and rapid chess and one bronze medal in blitz chess; Francisco Delos Santos, two Silver Medals in Rapid and Standard Chess and two Bronze Medals in Rapid Chess under the team and individual categories; and, Layzner Reputana, one Silver Medal in the 100 meter dash run.
With the results of the 7th National Para Games, Rojas said the local chapter of PHILSPADA intends to conduct early preparations for next year’s competition with selection of PWD athletes from the different villages in this city.
She said the association plans to hold the Inter-Barangay Sports Competition come October 2019 as part of the Zamboanga Hermosa Festival to provide greater opportunities for PWDs to participate in sports events. (SunStar Philippines)