In a remarkable celebration of female athletic excellence, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) hosted an inspiring ceremony today at the PSC Conference Room, located within the historic Rizal Memorial Sports Complex. This event gathered over 70 prominent women in sports to honor their contributions and achievements.

Commissioner Olivia “Bong” Coo, who oversees the PSC’s Women-in-Sports initiatives, facilitated the ceremony, where these exceptional athletes received commemorative rings. This gathering followed the inaugural Women in Sports Awards Night held earlier this year at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

The ceremony spotlighted celebrated sports icons, including Janelle Mae Frayna, the Philippines’ only Woman Grandmaster in chess; Long Jump Queen Elma Muros-Posadas; Adeline Dumapong, the nation’s first Paralympic medalist; and Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz-Naranjo, who received the prestigious Flame Award last March.

“I’m happy to be here, surrounded by women in sports who share the same mindset and goal of increasing the number of women excelling in sports,” remarked Diaz, reflecting on the significance of the event.

The event also provided a platform for important discussions surrounding various social issues impacting women in sports. Topics included gender inclusivity, violence against women and girls in sports, and the challenges faced by women athletes with special needs.

Commissioner Coo emphasized the importance of these discussions, stating, “This is a step forward in promoting gender equality within the Philippine sports industry. The voices of our female athletes and leaders are crucial in shaping the future of sports.”

The ceremony was divided into two sessions. The first session honored athletes from diverse disciplines, including:

• Francesca Altomonte (Softball)
• Jemyca Aribado (Squash)
• Marisa Barinda (Lawn Bowls)
• Joyce Gail Reboton (Powerlifting)
• Sydney Sy-Tancontian (Sambo)
• Cristina Vergara (Wrestling)
• Coaches Precious Aguilar (Obstacle Course Racing), Precious Ocaya-Delarmin (Muay Thai), and Maria Concepcion Fornea (Rowing)
• Purita Joy Mariño (Archery)
• Ana Maria Santiago (Softball)
• Hidilyn Diaz-Naranjo (Weightlifting)
• Erlinda Lavandia and Elma Muros-Posadas (Athletics)
• Commissioner Olivia Coo (Bowling)

The second session recognized additional athletes, including:

• Sandi Menchi Abahan (Obstacle Course Racing)
• Edelyn de Asis (Para Dancesport)
• Janelle Mae Frayna (Chess)
• Pia Legaspi Gabriel (Motocross)
• Cheyzer Crystal Mendoza (Para Chess)
• Shagne Paula Yaoyao (Cycling)
• Bien Zoleta-Mañalac (Soft Tennis)
• Coaches Anu de Leon-Brown (Triathlon) and Haydee Ong (Basketball)
• Nhea Ann Barcen (Athletics)
• Carina Dayondon (Mountain Climbing)
• Adeline Dumapong (Para Powerlifting)

This celebration not only honors the remarkable achievements of these women but also serves as a vital reminder of the ongoing work needed to promote gender equality in sports. The PSC continues to pave the way for future generations of female athletes, ensuring their voices are heard and their achievements celebrated.