Palace to Petecio: Shine even more

MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang was elated by Filipina boxer Nesthy Petecio’s victory, calling it a “proud moment” for the Philippines.

“Our gold streak continues. The Palace congratulates Filipino boxer Nesthy Petecio for winning the 2019 AIBA Women’s Boxing World Championships yesterday,” presidential spokesman Salvador Panelo said in a statement.

“Our people are one in rejoicing Nesthy’s triumph after winning against her Russian opponent in the latter’s turf country. Indeed, it was a proud moment for Nesthy and the Philippines,” he added.

Panelo said the Palace expects Petecio to “shine even more” in the 30th SEA Games to be held in Manila on Nov. 30 to Dec. 11.

Petecio’s victory came a day after gymnast Carlos Yulo became the first Filipino to win a gold medal at the 41st FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships.

“This is really good news for our country. The victories of Ms. Petecio and Mr. Yulo underline the fact that we as a nation can achieve excellence and greatness,” Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles said in a statement.

Nograles urged sports officials to use the two triumphs as motivation in the upcoming SEA Games and the Tokyo Olympics next year.

“In fact, the burden lies not only in our sports authorities but in all of government to ensure that we build on such wins,” he said.

Nograles said that the whole sports community should work together to implement a nationwide a grassroots sports program. He said such program would help identify talented prospects at a young age and train them in world-class facilities.