SEA Games medalists Casares and Alcoseba dominate National Age Group Triathlon (NAGT) series opener at Subic Bay

Filipino-Spanish Fernando Jose Casares displayed his awesome form to claim victory in the sprint men’s elite category of the National Age Group Triathlon (NAGT) Series at the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority on Sunday.

Casares, born in Madrid to a Spanish father and a Filipino mother, clocked 57 minutes and 16 seconds to prevail over Cebu City’s Matthew Justine Hermosa (57:34) and Andrew Kim Remolino (59:12) in the swim (750m)-bike (20km)-run (5km) event.

“The competition was tough. My rivals are strong. But I am determined to win,” said the 26-year-old Casares, who also ruled the same category at the National Duathlon Championships at the New Clark City Sports Complex in Capas, Tarlac last December.

Casares earned the standard distance swim (1.5km)-bike (40km)-run(10km) gold medal at the 2022 Vietnam SEA Games. He pocketed the mixed relay gold medal with Chicano, Kim Mangrobang and Claire Adorna at the 2019 Manila SEA Games.

Cebu City’s Raven Faith Alcoseba topped the women’s category in 1:04:36, beating Erika Nicole Burgos (1:08:03) and Karen Manayon (1:08:25).

Alcoseba, who hails from Talisay City, also won the sprint gold medal the duathlon competition in New Clark City last year.

Meanwhile, Dayshaun Ramos and Kira Ellis were crowned champions in the junior elite division of the tournament organized by the Triathlon Association of the Philippines (TRAP) headed by Tom Carrasco Jr.

Ramos won the men’s category in 1:01.56 while Akio Habana (1:03:43) and Aidanreed Mercado (1:03:51) finished second and third, respectively.

In the women’s category, Ellis posted 1:05:51 to grab the gold medal. Gene Heart Quiambao (1:06:15) took the silver medal and Lady Samantha Jhunace Corpuz (1:07:18) settled for the bronze medal.

“This tournament is part of our national athletes’ preparation for the Cambodia SEA Games in May,” Carrasco said after the awarding ceremony.

Other tune-up events lined up for the team are the National Aquathlon Championships at Vermosa (Cavite) in March and the Subic Bay International Triathlon in April.

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Note: The above press release and details were sourced from the Triathlon Association of the Philippines (TRAP). Some parts were edited for this website.

Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. If you want to support my website, please consider making a donation. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco/.

A tough battle for the Philippines at the 2023 Southeast Asian Games (32nd SEA Games) in Cambodia

This year marks Cambodia’s hosting of the 32nd edition of the Southeast Asian Games (also referred to as SEA Games, 32nd SEA Games and Cambodia 2023). The said regional games composed of multiple sports competitions will officially happen this coming May and already a tough battle for the Philippines has been seen, according to a news article by the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from the PNA article. Some parts in boldface…

Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino on Tuesday sees tough battle ahead for the Philippine contingent as Cambodia hosts the 32nd Southeast Asian Games in less than four months.

“Frankly, kinakabahan ako because of the formula na ginawa ng host country (Frankly, I’m worried because of the formula made by the host country),” said Tolentino during the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum at the East Ocean Palace Restaurant in Pasay City.

“Medyo mabigat ang ginawa (It’s a bit abrupt),” Tolentino added, referring to Cambodia’s decision to include events that are practically alien to the other countries and exclude events where Cambodians have slim chances of winning.

For a country of less than 17 million people, Cambodia has lined up 608 events in 49 sports, far bigger than the 530 events in 56 sports in the Manila edition in 2019 and the 526 events in 40 sports in Hanoi last year.

But it does not mean that the Philippines, this early, is giving up the fight for the biennial event scheduled from May 5 to 17.

Tolentino said the POC will still make sure that the Philippines will be represented well in as many events in Cambodia and hope to match or improve on its fourth-place finish in Hanoi in May 2022.

“Salihan natin lahat ng events sa Cambodia (We will join all events in Cambodia),” he said during the forum presented by San Miguel Corporation (SMC), MILO, Philippine Sports Commission, POC, and the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR).

“Kailangan natin masalihan lahat (We need to compete in all events). We will give them a good fight,” added Tolentino, who is also counting on newly-appointed Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairperson Dicky Bachmann as the national athletes gear up for the Cambodia event.

“Buti na lang pareho kami hands-on (Bachmann) (The good thing is we are both hands-on),” said the POC chief and president of PhilCycling.

Cambodia finished at No. 8 in the last SEA Games edition, winning nine gold medals along with 13 silver and 41 bronzes. Providing the golds for the country were vovinam with three and petanque with two, then kickboxing, wrestling and taekwondo with one each.

Tolentino said it will be quite difficult for Cambodia to win the overall title this year.

“Based on their formula hindi kaya mag-first. Pero sasaksak sa taas yun whether second, third or fourth. So baka battle for fourth na naman. Tingnan natin (Based on their formula, they cannot get first place. But they will surge within the top whether second, third or fourth. So it might be battle for fourth again. Let’s see),” Tolentino said.

For the multisports enthusiasts reading this, the SEA Games in Cambodia officially has triathlon, duathlon and aquathlon competitions included which is something the Philippines has been looking forward to.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you believe that the Philippines could match its 31st SEA Games (hosted by Vietnam) overall medal finish in this year’s SEA Games in Cambodia? If you have been to Cambodia, what is their country like and how is their climate?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Muntinlupa-based SEA Games medalists to receive cash incentives from City Government

In the progressive city of Muntinlupa, the local residents who represented the Philippines in the recent 31st Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games) in Vietnam and won medals in a variety of sports events will receive cash incentives from the City Government, according to a Manila Bulletin news report. A few days ago, they visited Muntinlupa City Hall and met with outgoing Mayor and Congressman-elect Jaime Fresnedi.

To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from the Manila Bulletin report. Some parts in boldface…

Athletes from Muntinlupa who won at the 31st Southeast Asian Games will be given cash incentives by the city government.

On June 1, Muntinlupa athletes who took home SEAG medals paid a courtesy call on Mayor Jaime Fresnedi.

Outgoing Mayor and Congressman-elect Jaime Fresnedi with a batch of 31st SEA Games medalists based in the city. (photo source – Muntinlupa PIO)
Another batch of Muntinlupa-based SEA Games with the Mayor. (photo source – Muntinlupa PIO)

They were Carlo Biado, gold medal, Men’s 10-Ball Pool Singles Event, and silver medal, Men’s 9-Ball Pool Singles Event; Shugen Pablo Nakano, gold medal, Judoka Men’s 66 kg.; Rose Ann Marie Robles, gold medal, Grindsky Esports (LOL: Wild Rift – Women Team Event); Keisei Pablo Nakano, silver medal, Judo Men’s 73 kg.; and Daryl John Mercado, silver medal, Judo Men’s 55 kg. Annie Ramirez also won a gold medal in Jiu-jitsu Women’s 62 kg.

The Muntinlupa-based SEA Games medalists in a discussion with the Mayor. (photo source – Muntinlupa PIO)

Majority Floor Leader Raul Corro of the Muntinlupa City Council told Manila Bulletin that they may pass the resolution giving incentives to them on Monday, June 6, during the regular session.

Under Muntinlupa Ordinance 18-229, Muntinlupa athletes who win medals in international, national, and regional competitions such as the Olympics, Asian Games, and SEA Games will be given cash incentives.

The above report ended stating that SEA Games winners will be given P30,000 for a gold medal, P20,000 for a silver medal and P10,000 for a bronze medal.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a Muntinlupa City resident, what can you say about this recent development? Are you happy to learn that several locals in the city won several medals for the Philippines in the SEA Games? Do the SEA Games medalists of your city inspire you to get into sports?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco/

For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

Over 730,000 local and foreign tourists welcomed in Hanoi in connection to the 31st Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games)

Whenever a country hosts a major event that emphasizes international sports competition which involve the participation of athletes from many nations who joined in, the tourism aspect of it arguably becomes one metric of the event’s impact in relation to the host country’s tourism appeal. Case in point, the concluded 31st Southeast Asian Games (AKA the 31st SEA GamesSEA Games 31 and Hanoi 2021) hosted by Vietnam’s capital city Hanoi proved to be a magnet of both local and foreign tourists who were attracted to the games. Over 730,000 local and foreign tourists were counted specifically in Hanoi in connection to the SEA Games hosting, according to a report by VietnamPlus.vn.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from VietnamPlus.vn report. Some parts in boldface…

Hanoi welcomed 700,000 domestic tourists and 31,448 foreigners who visited or participated in events of the recently concluded SEA Games 31, the municipal Department of Tourism announced on May 24.

As of May 23, 18 hotels in Hanoi had accommodated more than 5,600 Vietnamese and foreign delegates, referees, athletes and reporters. In addition, other accommodation facilities stood ready to welcome tourists travelling to Hanoi during the Games.

The Department of Tourism asked relevant agencies to roll out new tourism products at the capital city’s famous attractions such as the Hoan Kiem Lake pedestrian zone, Thang Long Imperial Citadel and Bat Trang pottery village.

Images of Hanoi and preparations for SEA Games 31 were promoted on the department’s portal and websites on Hanoi tourism as well as TV channels and social media.

Director of the department Dang Huong Giang said it has organised numerous events and festivals for SEA Games 31, namely Hanoi gift festival and Son Tay – Xu Doai Tourism Year.

She affirmed that the capital’s tourism sector has fulfilled assigned tasks for hosting the regional sporting event, which contributed to attracting foreign tourists and investors to Vietnam and Hanoi in particular.

Vietnam, the host city and other localities worked hard in preparing for the SEA Games complete with implementing health protocols. It should be noted that foreign delegations to the SEA Games were not required to make COVID-19 health declarations upon arrival. It is encouraging to learn about the 700,000 local tourists and 31,448 foreign visitors welcomed in Hanoi and the only thing lacking from the local authorities are the economic estimates in the form of revenues and tourist-related spending that happened before and during the SEA Games. For the newcomers reading this, Vietnam reopened its borders to foreigners months ago and the nation recently recovered for very high counts of COVID-19 infections. In the weeks leading to the start of the 31st SEA Games, the daily count of new COVID-19 infections went way down. For more on the games and the tourism aspect of it, watch the videos below…

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What can you say about Vietnam’s hosting of the SEA Games? Are you interested to visit Vietnam someday? Would the city of Hanoi be your primary of place for vacation in Vietnam? Do you think that Vietnam will become a major tourist attraction internationally as COVID-19 becomes less problematic in the months ahead? Are you looking forward to the SEA Games next year in Cambodia?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco/

Muntinlupa-based SEA Games medalists congratulated by incoming Mayor Ruffy Biazon

In case you missed the news, the 31st Southeast Asian Games (AKA the 31st SEA GamesSEA Games 31 and Hanoi 2021) hosted by Vietnam is over and the Philippines won 52 gold medals (including three from triathlon and duathlon) to finish 4th overall in the medal standings. In Muntinlupa City, Mayor-elect Ruffy Biazon congratulated the SEA Games medalists based in the city, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.  

To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from the Manila Bulletin report. Some parts in boldface…

Muntinlupa mayor-elect and outgoing Rep. Ruffy Biazon congratulated six athletes who won at the recently concluded 31st Southeast Asian Games in Vietnam.

“Congratulations sa mga Muntinlupeño athletes na lumahok at nagwagi sa 31st SEA Games! (Congratulations to Muntinlupeño athletes who joined and won at the 31st SEA Games!),” Biazon posted on Facebook.

They are Annie Ramirez, who won a gold medal in Jiu-jitsu Women’s 62 kg.; Shugen Nakano, gold medal, Judoka Men’s 66 kg.; Rose Ann Marie Robles, gold medal, Grindsky Esports (LOL: Wild Rift – Women Team Event); Carlo Biado, gold medal, Men’s 10-Ball Pool Singles Event, and silver medal, Men’s 9-Ball Pool Singles Event; Keisei Nakano, silver medal, Judo Men’s 73 kg.; and Daryl John Mercado, silver medal, Judo Men’s 55 kg.

“Thank you for bringing pride to our country and city!” added Biazon.

The Philippines ended its campaign at the 31st SEA Games in fourth place overall with 52 gold medals, 70 silvers and 104 bronze medals for a total haul of 226.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a Muntinlupa City resident, what is your reaction to this recent development? Are you happy to learn about local residents who represented our country in the 31st SEA Games came home as medalists? Do you think that more Muntinlupa-based athletes will represent our country in the 2023 SEA Games in Cambodia?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco/

For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

Las Piñas City Government congratulates local resident who won a SEA Games gold medal

While the 31st Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games) in Vietnam has officially closed with the Philippines finishing 4th place overall with 52 gold medals won, the praise of medalists on the local level continued as the City Government of Las Piñas congratulated Jocel Lyn Ortiz Ninobla for winning the gold medal, the Manila Bulletin reported (quoting Mayor Imelda Aguilar). Specifically speaking, Ninobla topped the women’s individual poomsae during the SEA Games.

To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from the Manila Bulletin report. Some parts in boldface…

The Las Piñas government congratulated a daughter of the city, Jocel Lyn Ortiz Ninobla, for winning the gold medal in the individual female poomsae at the South East Asian (SEA) Games held in Vietnam.

Mayor Imelda Aguilar expressed pride in Ninobla, a resident of Talon Dos and a true Las Piñero, for winning the gold medal and giving pride to the city.

Aguilar said Ninobla also won a gold medal in the same category in the 2019 SEA Games.

The mayor said Ninobla won silver award in the 2018 World Championship in Taipei, a gold medal in the 2019 SEA Games in Manila, a gold medal in the 2021 World Daedo Champs, and a silver award in the 2021 Asian Championship held in Lebanon.

Aguilar said Ninobla also won a bronze medal in the 2021 World Taekwondo Online championship, a gold medal in the 2021 World Mastership championship, a bronze medal in the Asian Taekwondo Online championship, a silver award in the 2021 and 2022 World Taekwondo Poomsae challenge, and the latest gold medal in the female poomsae at the SEA games in Vietnam.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a Las Piñas City resident, how do you feel about a fellow local resident like Ninobla winning the SEA Games gold in her sport? Does Ninobla’s achievement inspire you to get into sports someday? Do you believe that there could be more Las Piñas residents among the many Philippine team athletes who won medals in the recent SEA Games?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco/

For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

Muntinlupa City Government congratulates local resident who won a SEA Games silver medal

As the ongoing 31st Southeast Asian Games (AKA the 31st SEA Games, SEA Games 31 and Hanoi 2021) in Vietnam gets closer to concluding, another local resident of Muntinlupa scored another medal for the country earning him recognition by the City Government. According to a Manila Bulletin news report, the said athlete was Carlo Biado who won a silver medal in the men’s 9-ball pool singles event at the SEA Games. Biado was previously congratulated by the City Government for his victory in America in 2021.

To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from the Manila Bulletin report. Some parts in boldface…

The Muntinlupa City government congratulated Filipino pool player Carlo Biado for winning a silver medal at the 31st Southeast Asian Games being held in Vietnam.

Biado, a resident of Barangay Putatan in Muntinlupa, bagged the silver medal in Men’s 9-Ball Pool Singles on May 18. The Philippines’ Johann Chua edged out Biado to win the gold medal in the event.

“Binabati ng Pamahalaang Lungsod ng Muntinlupa si Carlo Biado para sa kanyang tagumpay sa 31st SEA Games sa Vietnam (The Muntinlupa City government congratulates Carlo Biado for his triumph at the 31st SEA Games in Vietnam),” the city government posted on Facebook.

The city government earlier honored Annie Ramirez, a Muntinlupa resident, who won a gold medal for the country in Jujitsu-Women’s Under 62 kg category at the SEA Games. The City Council passed a resolution to honor and give cash incentive of P30,000 to Ramirez.

Last September, the Muntinlupa City government honored Biado for winning the US Open Pool Championship in Atlantic City.

This new development is really great news for both the nation and the City of Muntinlupa as well. Just days ago, the City Government lauded SEA Games gold medalist Annie Ramirez for her victory in the sport of Ju-jitsu. In fact, Muntinlupa City has been making waves in sports-related topics this year before the SEA Games even started. Muntinlupa has a brand new aquatic center and track-and-field oval.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a Muntinlupa City resident, are you happy to discover that another local resident won an additional SEA Games medal for the country? Does this inspire you to get into sports with the vision of representing the country in major sports events?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco/

For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

Muntinlupa-based SEA Games gold medalist lauded by City Government

As the 31st Southeast Asian Games (AKA the 31st SEA Games, SEA Games 31 and Hanoi 2021) in Vietnam goes on, the City Government of Muntinlupa congratulated and recognized a local resident who is part of the Philippine Team and won the SEA Games gold medal in the sport of Jiu-jitsu.

This past Monday, Congressman-elect and outgoing Mayor Jaime Fresnedi congratulated Annie Ramirez for delivering a gold medal for the Philippines in the women’s jiu-jitsu category in the 31st Southeast Asian Games at Dan Phuong Gymnasium, Vietnam. Ramirez paid a courtesy visit at the local City Hall and in the Regular Session of Muntinlupa City Council, Monday morning. The City Council approved a resolution recognizing Ramirez’ feat and granting her financial reward worth P50,000.

SEA Games gold medalist and Muntinlupa City resident Annie Ramirez with Mayor Jaime Fresnedi. (photo source – Muntinlupa PIO)

On May 14 (Saturday), Ramirez ruled the women’s jiu-jitsu 62 kg event, extending her reign, after winning over Thai Orapa Senatham. A gold medalist in the 2019 SEA Games, she secured the country’s tenth gold medal in this year’s SEA Games.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a Muntinlupa City resident, are you happy to discover that a local resident turned out to be a SEA Games gold medalist? Does this inspire you to be interested to get engaged in sports and work your way up to represent the country in a future sports event overseas?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco/

For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

Philippines looking forward to triathlon, duathlon and aquathlon at next year’s SEA Games in Cambodia

There is no denying that the Philippines had a big weekend winning 3 gold medals, 1 silver medal and a bronze medal in the triathlon and duathlon events of the 31st Southeast Asian Games (AKA the 31st SEA Games, SEA Games 31 and Hanoi 2021) in Vietnam. To be specific, Fer Casares and Andrew Kim Remolino won the men’s triathlon gold and silver medals on May 14 while Marion Kim Mangrobang and Raven Faith Alcoseba secured the gold and bronze for the country in the women’s triathlon event that same day. The next day, Mangrobang won the gold in the women’s duathlon which fully established her as Southeast Asia’s reigning queen of triathlon and duathlon until the next SEA Games in Cambodia.

Deservedly, the medalists and their coaches were warmly welcomed at the airport upon arrival from Vietnam as seen in the following images released by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) through Facebook. Check out the images below…

The Philippine triathlon team welcomed at the airport upon arrival from Vietnam. (photo source – Philippine Sports Commission)
SEA Games gold medalist in men’s triahlon Fer Casares. (photo source – Philippine Sports Commission)
SEA Games double-gold medalist (women’s triathlon and women’s duathlon) Kim Mangrobang. (photo source – Philippine Sports Commission)
SEA Games silver medalist in men’s triathlon Andrew Kim Remolino. (photo source – Philippine Sports Commission)
SEA Games bronze medalist in women’s triathlon Raven Faith Alcoseba. (photo source – Philippine Sports Commission)

On the future of the SEA Games, the next edition – the 32nd Southeast Asian Games – will be hosted by Cambodia in May 2023. What is significant about next year’s games (promoted as Cambodia 2023) is the fact that it officially has triathlon, duathlon and aquathlon among its many events. In relation to this, the Philippine Star published a report about the Triathlon Association of the Philippines (TRAP) looking forward to winning even more gold medals in the 2023 SEA Games with the three mentioned multisport events in mind.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the Philippine Star report. Some parts in boldface…

After coming short of its sweep bid, the Triathlon Association of the Philippines is looking forward to the next edition of the Southeast Asian Games in Phnom Penh, Cambodia where it has chance to rake in more gold medals.

Next year in Cambodia, there will be three events each for triathlon, duathlon and aquathlon,” said TRAP president Tom Carrasco. “We’re back to the drawing board because we also have to prepare for the World Games Duathlon in July.”

The official logo of the 2023 Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia.

The country came into the Hanoi event eyeing 1-2 finishes in all four events but wound up with just three gold medals, including two from Kim Mangrobang, a silver from Kim Remolino and a bronze from Raven Alcoseba also in triathlon.

Fer (Casares) delivered the other gold in men’s triathlon.

John Leerams Chicano, a two-time triathlon SEA Games gold winner, failed in his SEA Games duathlon debut as he wound up just fourth.

The Filipinos hope to bounce back big in Phnom Penh.

The above report ended with the TRAP president stating that in Cambodia, they were allowed eight to nine events to include duathlon, aquathlon plus mixed relay teams. For the newcomers reading this, aquathlon is a multisport race or activity that consists of running and swimming.

In ending this post, let us all thank our Lord for what the Philippine triathletes achieved in the SEA Games in Vietnam. Thank the Lord that He will bless the medalists and the coaches for their achievements as the government will release cash incentives to them in accordance to Republic Act Number 10699. For future multisport events that the triathlon team will engage in, pray to our Lord for His guidance on them so that they can achieve victories and bring in more glory and honors for the Philippines. Pray to the Lord with the holy scriptures posted below.

I have fought the good (worthy, honorable, and noble) fight, I have finished the race, I have kept (firmly held) the faith.

2 Timothy 4:7 (AMPC)

I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.

Philippians 4:13 (NASB)

And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.

Galatians 6:9 (NKJV)

O Lord our God, let your sweet beauty rest upon us. Come work with us, and then our works will endure; you will give us success in all we do.

Psalms 90:17 (TPT)

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco/

Mangrobang wins another gold medal for the Philippines at the 31st SEA Games!

The Philippines got a much-needed boost in the medal tally of the ongoing 31st Southeast Asian Games (AKA the 31st SEA Games, SEA Games 31 and Hanoi 2021) in Vietnam as the region’s reigning triathlon queen Marion Kim Mangrobang pulled off another gold medal victory in the women’s duathlon event today. To put things in perspective, this is the second straight gold medal Mangrobang won for the nation and the duathlon event for women happened just a day after the women’s triathlon took place. That being said, what she achieved for the nation – double gold medals in back-to-back multisport events – is nothing short of amazing!

The official race results of the SEA Games women’s duathlon showed that Mangrobang finished the grueling 10 kilometer run – 40Km bike – 5Km run event in 2 hours, 13 minutes and 12 seconds, securing the gold medal for the Philippines. The silver medal went to Tahira Najmunisaa Muhammad Zaid of Malaysia who finished 2:14:22 while Indonesia’s Zahra Putri Bulan Aprillia grabbed the bronze clocking 2:14:49. Mangrobang’s teammate Alexandra Ganzon finished 8th with a time of 2:23:09.

Kim Mangrobang’s SEA Games women’s duathlon gold medal victory acknowledged. (photo source – Philippine Olympic Committee Facebook page)

Looking at the individual times, Mangrobang had the 2nd fastest time in the 10Km run leg and went on to complete the 40Km bike leg in 1:09:51. Mangrobang excelled in the 5Km run leg clocking 19:51 which was enough to secure the first-place victory. None of her competitors finished the 5Km run in less than 20 minutes.

Kim Mangrobang’s double-gold accomplishments this weekend helped the Philippines a lot in the ongoing SEA Games. As such, she has established herself as the reigning queen of triathlon and duathlon in the entire Southeast Asian region. On social media, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) acknowledged the newly won women’s duathlon gold medal as the 14th gold the country won as of this writing. What Mangrobang achieved here will be remembered for a very long time and it is worth recording in the history of Philippine sports, Philippine triathlon and the SEA Games itself.

As I mentioned in my previous article, the next edition of the Southeast Asian Games will be held in Cambodia next year already. The 32nd SEA Games (marketed as Cambodia 2023) already has triathlon, duathlon and aquathlon among its official events. That being said, Kim Mangrobang’s reign as Southeast Asia’s best female triathlete and duathlete will last until the next SEA Games happen. If you want to learn more about Mangrobang, read my feature article of her by clicking here.

Going back to the ongoing SEA Games’ duathlon, the Philippines almost won a medal in the men’s duathlon event according to the race results published. John Chicano finished 4th timing 1:57:50. He was just 14 seconds behind the bronze medalist Jauhari Johan of Indonesia. The gold and silver medals were won by the respective duathletes of Vietnam (1:55:58) and Indonesia (1:56:12). Chicano’s teammate Raymond Torio Molano finished 6th with a time of 1:59:49. Those who want to learn more about Chicano – who won the 2019 SEA Games men’s triathlon gold medal and was the top Philippine finisher in the recent Subic Bay International Triathlon – read my feature of him by clicking here.

To view the SEA Games women’s duathlon official race results, click https://triathlon.org/results/result/2022_hanoi_south_east_asian_games._duathlon/559070

To view the SEA Games men’s duathlon official race results, click https://triathlon.org/results/result/2022_hanoi_south_east_asian_games._duathlon/559069

Now that the triathlon and duathlon events of the 31st SEA Games are officially over, the Philippines won a total of 3 gold medals, 1 silver medal and 1 bronze. Fer Casares and Kim Mangrobang’s gold-medal accomplishments (plus the respective medal victories of Andrew Kim Remolino and Raven Faith Alcoseba) in Vietnam made that clear the Philippines is the best in Southeast Asia in the sport of triathlon until the next SEA Games happen in Cambodia. On duathlon, the Philippines is the best in Southeast Asia among the women while Vietnam is the best in the region among the men.

Considering what the Philippines achieved in the multisport events in Vietnam, we should all be thankful to the Lord for the victories. I encourage you all to congratulate our nation’s best multisport athletes as well as their coaches, the local triathlon officials, the supporters and other stakeholders who helped made the SEA Games events and participation push through.

In closing this post, posted below are two translations of Philippian 4:13 from the Holy Bible which should enlighten you about victory, achievements and accomplishments. Once again, praise and thank the Lord for the triathlon, duathlon and other sports victories the Philippines achieved in the 31st SEA Games.

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Philippians 4:13 (NKJV)

I have strength for all things in Christ Who empowers me [I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him Who infuses inner strength into me; I am self-sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency].

Philippians 4:13 (AMPC)

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco/