OLYMPIC double medalist Nesthy Petecio encouraged Filipina athletes to embrace challenges, conquer their fears, and keep chasing their dreams in celebration of Women's Month.
Speaking at the recently concluded 2025 All-Women Sports Awards at Century Park Hotel, Petecio reminded her fellow athletes that every trial is an opportunity to grow.
"Lahat ng pagsubok na dumadating sa atin ay may dahilan (All the challenges that come our way have a purpose) —either to teach us a lesson or to push us toward something greater)," said Petecio who was honored as Athlete of the Year.
The Davao City-born Olympian, who clinched a silver medal in Tokyo and a bronze in Paris, shared her struggles inside and outside the ring, highlighting the resilience that kept her going.
"Every punch, every fall, every doubt only made me stronger. Kaya gusto kong ipaalala sa inyo (That's why I want to remind you): You are capable. You are powerful. You are unstoppable. Huwag hayaang pigilan ka ng takot o ng ibang tao. `Babae ka, hindi babae ka lang (Don't let fear or others hold you back. `You are a woman, not just a woman')."
Petecio also underscored that women matter in any role—whether as athletes, servicewomen, mothers, daughters, or dreamers.
"Hindi mo kailangang humingi ng permiso para mangarap (You don’t need to ask for permission to dream). You are enough. You are strong. You are one of a kind," she added.
She then urged everyone to keep pushing forward, supporting, and uplifting one another.
"The world needs more women who dare to dream, break barriers, and never back down. Labang lang, ladies! Padayon (Keep fighting, ladies! Keep going)," Petecio concluded.
The Women in Sports (WIS) program of the Philippine Sports Commission organized the annual awards to honor women making significant contributions to sports. The event recognized the 2024 female Olympic delegates, top sports executives, pioneering female coaches, and women leading unique sports initiatives. It promotes inclusivity by celebrating Filipina athletes across all levels—from elite and para-athletes to Special Olympics competitors, youth athletes, and masters athletes. MLSA