Otom leads Philippines with fifth gold at ASEAN Para Games

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Angel Otom continued to shine for the Philippines at the 13th ASEAN Para Games on Saturday in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, claiming her fifth gold medal in the women’s 50-meter freestyle S4-S5. The 22-year-old finished the race in 44.51 seconds, bringing her overall medal count to six in the competition.

The 2024 Paris Paralympian surpassed her previous performance at the 12th ASEAN Para Games in Cambodia, where she won four golds and one silver. “It was very fulfilling kasi nakuha ko five golds sa five individual events ko and one silver sa relay namin sa 4×50 freestyle,” Otom said, adding that she felt more prepared this year to reach her fifth gold.

Filipino swimmers continued to dominate the pool as Gary Bejino captured his third gold in the men’s 50-meter freestyle S6 with a time of 33.23 seconds. Marco Tinamisan also earned gold in the men’s 50-meter freestyle S3, finishing in 52.13 seconds to add to the country’s tally.

Angel Otom celebrates after winning the women’s 50m freestyle S4-S5 at the ASEAN Para Games. [photo credit: Philippine Sports Commission]

Filipino chess players shine with multiple victories

In chess, Sander Severino and Darry Bernardo led the Philippine delegation to four gold medals in the Standard Time Control category at Nakhon Ratchasima Rajabhat University. Severino, a FIDE Master, scored 5.5 points to win the men’s individual PI event and later partnered with Jasper Rom and Henry Roger Lopez to secure gold in the men’s team PI category.

Meanwhile, 25-year-old Bernardo triumphed in the B2 men’s division and teamed up with Arman Subaste and Menandro Redor to claim the team B2 title. Their victories underscored the Philippines’ strength in both individual and team events.

Philippines nears 30 golds on final day

With the final day of competition on Sunday, more medals are anticipated as the Philippines stands at 28 golds at press time. The country is on the cusp of surpassing the 30-gold mark, continuing a dominant run across swimming and chess events.

Athletes are expected to give their best performances in the remaining events, with the delegation hoping to close the games on a historic high. Philippine officials and coaches praised the athletes’ dedication, resilience, and teamwork throughout the tournament.