THE 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China officially concluded this week. Overall, the host country successfully defended its title by securing the top spot in the medal tally with 201 golds, 111 silvers, and 71 bronzes, totaling 383 medals.
The Philippines, on the other hand, finished the event in 17th place with 4 golds, 2 silvers, and 12 bronzes.
This marks an improvement from the Philippines’ 19th-place finish in the 2018 Asian Games.
Among those who won gold for the Philippines were EJ Obiena, Meggie Ochoa, Annie Ramirez, and the Gilas Men’s Basketball Team.
Gilas Pilipinas also ended the 61-year gold medal drought for the Philippine Men’s Basketball Team in the Asian Games.
Philippine Olympic Committee hopeful for more Filipino athletes at 2024 Paris Olympics
Meanwhile, Philippine Olympic Committee President Bambol Tolentino is hopeful that more Filipino athletes will qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Currently, only four Filipinos are confirmed to participate in the said Summer Games.
These athletes include pole vaulter EJ Obiena, boxer Eumir Marcial, and gymnasts Carlos Yulo and Aleah Finnegan.
According to Tolentino, he believes that Gilas Pilipinas, who emerged victorious in the 19th Asian Games, as well as weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz, and many other athletes from various sports events, have a good chance of securing spots at the Paris Olympics.
