Ojay Fuentes narrowly missed out on a medal after placing fourth in the men’s canoe singles at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games Wednesday, Dec. 10, at The Royal Thai Navy Rowing and Canoeing Training Center in Rayong, Thailand. Fuentes finished with a time of 2:06.164, just shy of bronze medalist Hong Quan Pham of Vietnam, who clocked 2:03.663.

Thailand’s Pitpiboom Mahawattanangkul claimed the gold with a 1:58.314 finish, while Myanmar’s Win Myo Hlaing took silver at 1:58.773. Despite Fuentes’ strong effort, the podium eluded the Philippines, reflecting the stiff competition in the event.

Philippine doubles team struggles amid tough field

In the men’s canoe doubles 500m, Lealyn Baligasa and Joanna Barca finished last among five teams, crossing the line in 2:33.209. Their result highlighted the ongoing challenges for the Philippine canoe squad against more experienced regional competitors.

The men’s 200m kayak doubles, featuring Janus Ercilla and Neljohn Fabro, are set to compete on Thursday. Both paddlers, aged 22 and hailing from Leyte, represent the newest generation of Filipino canoeists discovered through training camps by the Philippine Canoe Kayak Dragonboat Federation.

Hope rests on young paddlers for upcoming events

Philippine Canoe Kayak Dragonboat Federation president Len Escollante expressed optimism about the young duo’s potential. “I hope na makapag-deliver ‘yung mga bata. New generation na kasi ito na na-train natin. I hope makapag-deliver sila. Sabi ko naman sa kanila, any color basta medal,” Escollante said.

With Fuentes’ near podium finish and the doubles team gaining valuable experience, the federation is focusing on nurturing these young talents for future SEA Games competitions and other international events.