As a long-time supporter of Special Olympics Philippines, E-Sports International congratulates the national team on its victories at the 2019 Special Olympics World Games in Abu Dhabi.

Earlier this year from March 14 to 21, 2019, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) hosted the 2019 Special Olympics World Games in Abu Dhabi—a first for the Middle East since the movement’s founding in 1968. The Philippine team joined nearly 200 countries and more than 7,500 participants in Abu Dhabi, with a delegation of 39 athletes and 19 coaches and staff. Our national representatives heroically returned with a total of 36 medals—10 gold medals, 10 silver medals, and 16 bronze medals. The Philippine team also brought home eight 4th place ribbons, six 5th place ribbons, seven 6th place ribbons, and five 8th place ribbons in nine sports.

Our athletes earned outstanding successes in a variety of events, including swimming, futsal, gymnastics, athletics, bocce, dance, badminton, bowling, powerlifting, and more. The gold medalists included Aivie Dungca (gymnastics), Aprila Hermosa and Carmela Basas (rhythmic gymnastics), Sheila Galvez (bocce), Janice Trinidad (100-meter run, athletics), Catherine Managay (badminton), Noel Cartera (50-meter backstroke, swimming), and the members of the Special Olympics Philippines Futsal Team.

Preparation for the event was a long and challenging journey for the Philippine team, involving regular training sessions and several local competitions—leading up to the first national games in eight years. With the support of different individuals and groups, including E-Sports International, the Philippines was able to once again represent the country in this year’s Special Olympics World Games. Filipinos living abroad in the UAE also welcomed their arriving countrymen by volunteering, attending the games, and cheering for the Special Olympics athletes.

“Each athlete showed the world the meaning of a true champion—a person full of determination, perseverance, and strength; our coaches showed dedication and commitment to every athlete, helping them not only in the actual competitions but also in developing the skills needed to cope with everyday life,” said Kaye Samson, National Executive Director of Special Olympics Philippines.

“Parents of our athletes have been happily reporting to us how their children have changed since they arrived—more independent and confident, able to manage [their] own behavior and emotions better, and significant increase in cognition and socialization skills… The journey does not end at the World Games, we will continue to work with our athletes to develop more skills, as well as continue to reach out to more persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities, especially those who have never been given opportunities to learn and play sports.”

Special Olympics is a global organization that supports intellectually disabled athletes—by enlisting volunteers around the world, transforming perceptions, and enriching the lives of its participants. These efforts continuously offer those with intellectual disabilities more chances to develop physical fitness and athleticism, demonstrate courage, overcome challenges, build social relationships, and share joy.

E-Sports International would like to express our pride and elation for the tremendous accomplishments of the Special Olympics Philippines team of athletes, trainers, organizers, and volunteers. We are committed to uplifting Philippine athletes by providing them with support and greater opportunities for development. As part of our social responsibility, we will continue to assist Special Olympics Philippines and its important cause to foster greater understanding, acceptance, sportsmanship, and inclusion.

Visit the Special Olympics Philippines Facebook page or email the organization at specialolympicsph@gmail.com to learn how you can donate, participate, or volunteer.

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Photo Credits:

Images are from Special Olympics Philippines and 2019 Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi.