Photo: The Philippines for the parade of colors.
On a stage where Olympic slots are at stake, and the whole of Asia is monitoring the country’s capability to host a significant swim event since 1978, the Philippine Aquatics, Inc. fires off the starting gun for the 11th Asian Age Group Championships on Sunday at the New Clark City Aquatics Center in Capas City, Tarlac.
“A lot is riding here in our first-ever hosting of the AAGC. First, this event now serves as an Olympic Qualifying competition. Second, this event practically becomes our comeback foray into active and competitive international swimming. Not the least, our country’s pride and honor are at stake here as we welcome the best of the Asian pool,” said Batangas 1st District Rep. Eric Buhain, PAI secretary-general, after a festive opening ceremony for the most significant swimming competition since a new leadership emerged in the Philippine Aquatics, Inc. headed by its president Miko Vargas.
“And let’s not forget our Filipino aquatics athletes. This is also for them, PAI’s gift to especially those who stuck it out with the sport, which has been through many problems and struggles,” added Buhain.
In twenty-eight countries, some 1,200 athletes are featured here, with the Philippines fielding 50 (22 boys and 22 girls in swimming, four in diving, and two in artistic swimming).
President Ferdinand Bong Bong Marcos Jr. has thrown his support of the AAGC hosting, and Malacañang eventually directed all government agencies and instrumentalities to provide necessary assistance to ensure the success of the 11th Asian Age Group Championship from slated Feb. 26 to March 9.
The directive contained in Memorandum Circular (MC) 43, inked by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on Jan. 17, covers all government offices and instrumentalities, including government-owned or controlled corporations.
The Philippine team will be bannered by top junior record holders Michaela Jasmine Mojdeh, Heather White, KC Tionko, Jamesray Ajido, and Yuan Parto. At the same time, two artistic swimmers – Zoe Lim and Antonia Lucia Raffaele – are expected to give a strong showing.
