CEBUANA Olympian and marathon icon Mary Joy Tabal-Jimenez is hopeful that the grassroots sports program she initiated will continue under the new Mandaue City administration.
On Monday, June 30, 2025, Mayor Jonkie Ouano officially assumed office, succeeding former Mayor Jonas Cortes.
Tabal-Jimenez, widely recognized as Cebu’s marathon queen, served as the sports development officer of the Mandaue Athletics and Sports Development Office during mayor Jonas Cortes’ administration.
However, she admitted that she is still uncertain whether she will retain her position under the new leadership.
Reflecting on her two-year stint, she described the program as a success, having laid the groundwork for developing young athletes at the grassroots level.
Under her leadership, Mandaue City became a legitimate contender in both regional and national sports competitions.
She emphasized that her impartial selection of athletes representing Mandaue City was key to the program’s success, along with the strong support from the local government unit.
“In the selection process of athletes, we’re impartial. Some parents questioned why their kids weren’t chosen, but I stood firm on our policy. We prioritized talent to ensure that only the most qualified joined our grassroots program,” Tabal-Jimenez said during the Online Sports Leadership Program Summit 2025 held at Bai Hotel last week.
She expressed hope that if she is replaced, her successor will continue the program.
“My only request to my successor is to sustain the programs because it would be a waste if they don’t. We can collaborate for everyone. We strive to become better. I am non-partisan because my focus is on the athletes,” said Tabal-Jimenez, a native of Barangay Guba, Cebu City.
As of this writing, there is no official update regarding the future management Mandaue City’s sports programs. / JBM