January 23, 2022

Former Defense Secretary Gilberto (GIBO) Teodoro, Jr. said that a sure way to raise the international stature of the Philippines is through sports. He noted the recent Philippine achievements in sports starting with the country’s first ever Olympic gold medal won by Hidilyn Diaz in the women’s weightlifting 55kg category.

Gibo Teodoro, a candidate for senator, called on the government and the private sector to work in partnership on sports development programs and to provide funding. He said that each sports association must review and revise the blueprint of their respective programs and highlight the national athletes’ welfare. He particularly mentioned proper training, health and diet, and educational opportunities.

Gibo Teodoro, a former Tarlac congressman, said it must be the country’s honor that we must have in mind first when asked about the issue surrounding world-class Filipino pole vaulter Ernest John (EJ) Obiena. He said that an amicable solution is the best way to solve the problem and that bickering will get us nowhere since everyone is set to lose.

Gibo Teodoro, a swimmer and golfer, mentioned as recent world class achievements those of Filipino-Japanese Yuka Saso in the US Women’s Open Championship in golf, Nonito Donaire for winning a bantamweight world title at the age of 38, and Obiena’s qualifying for the Tokyo Olympics.