By Jean Malanum
MANILA – The Philippines will send three athletes to the Southeast Asia (SEA) Weightlifting Championships in Singapore next month.
John Dexter Tabique of Cebu (men’s 96 kg), Dave Lloyd Pacaldo of Bohol (men’s 65kg), and Eleika Lozada of Zamboanga City (women’s 87+kg) will see action in the event to be held during the Singapore Weightlifting Festival from June 13 to 15.
The festival also features the United Masters Weightlifting Federation (UMWF) World Cup, Commonwealth Masters Championships and the Singapore Weightlifting International Championships.
Tabique and Pacaldo both competed at the 2023 Cambodia SEA Games, with Tabique winning the 89kg bronze medal. Lozada will be making her international debut.
Samahang Weightlifting ng Pilipinas president Monico Puentevella will serve as head of the delegation which also include coaches Ramon Solis (Cebu) and Samuel Alegada (Bohol).
Meanwhile, Puentevella noted the country’s successful campaign at the World Youth and Junior Championships in Lima, Peru and the recent Asian Championships in Jianshang, China.
“This China competition is a preparation for the Asian Games and the LA Olympics. Same as our four golds in the World Championships in Peru which has amazed the top officials of the International Weightlifting Federation. Only China equalled our golds and Asians dominated the world tilt. Our anthem was played four times which reminded the IWF that we’re on our way to LA again. Thanks to the outstanding lifters, their parents, our world-class coaches, Philippine Sports Commission, MVP, SM Group, ICTSI, Ayala Land and our Board. Most of all, to God be the glory,” said Puentevella, who was inducted into the IWF Hall of Fame in 2022. Under his leadership, the Philippines captured its first Olympic gold medal through Hidilyn Diaz during the 2020 Tokyo Games. (PNA)
