Sebastian, SEAG strongest man, passes away

Weightlifter Jaime Sebastian, who was known before as Southeast Asia’s "strongest man," died last Wednesday after suffering a stroke in Zamboanga City. He was 53.

Sebastian won a total of 17 gold medals in the SEA Games as he brought so much pride and honor to the country which he represented in various international meets from 1977 to 1989.

But it was in the SEA Games where Sebastian really made his presence felt, and in the process earned the distinction as the region’s "strongest man."

Sebastian was also a member of the Philippine Air Force, and before suffering his first stroke almost two years ago was a consultant at the Philippine Sports Commission.

Sebastian, who has stayed in Zamboanga for some time prior to his death, was also the former president of the Athletes and Coaches Association of the Philippines.

Under Republic Act 9064, Sebastian’s family stands to receive P30,000 as benefit from the PSC. — Abac Cordero