Lhey Marie Manginsay, a 21-year-old table tennis sensation from Zamboanga Sibugay, concluded her participation at the 8th Philippine National Para Games with a remarkable victory, claiming the gold medal in the women’s singles Class 10 event on Thursday, November 14. Her win came just before the closing ceremony held at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium within the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Manila.

In the finals, Manginsay defeated national team member Minnie Cadag in a straight 3-0 set, showcasing her skills and dedication on the national stage. “Maganda po ang nilaro ko today. Talagang nagpursige ako na makapunta dito dahil pangarap ko makalaro sa national team,” said Manginsay, reflecting on her achievement.

This debut for Manginsay at the Philippine National Para Games was filled with achievements. She also took home two silver medals: one in the women’s team event with her partner Marie Nina Carmelotes from Davao, and another in mixed doubles with Rommel Lucencio. Both matches were fiercely contested, with Manginsay’s teams ultimately finishing behind seasoned national players, including Marie Eloise Sable and Linard Sultan.

“First time ko sumali dito sa PNPG. Hindi ako nanalo sa team event pero nakuha ko naman ang singles. Iyan talaga ang pinunta ko dito,” Manginsay shared, expressing her primary goal for participating.

Manginsay’s journey to success is an inspiring story of resilience. A third-year social work student at Sibugay Technical Institute Inc. (STII), she has been compared to renowned Paralympian Josephine Medina, who won a bronze medal in the 2016 Rio De Janeiro Paralympic Games. “It’s an honor na ma-compare ako sa kanya. Lalo ko pang pagbubutihin para marating ko ang na-achieve nya,” Manginsay said, paying tribute to her inspiration.

Her journey has not been easy. After a fall from a hanging bridge in 2019, Manginsay suffered a serious injury to her right elbow, which impacted her physical abilities. Following surgery and numerous therapy sessions, she has continued to play, despite limitations in her right arm’s mobility.

Manginsay’s success at the Philippine National Para Games underscores the power of resilience and passion, inspiring both athletes and spectators alike. As she sets her sights on higher goals, her journey stands as a beacon of hope and determination for aspiring athletes across the Philippines.