Volleyball star Alyssa Valdez expressed gratitude to the Philippine Olympic Committee for highlighting Filipina athletes during the traditional parade of nations in the 32nd Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia.
In a historic first in the biennial meet, Team Philippines marched with an all-female contingent with Valdez leading the way in her second stint as flag bearer in the colorful opening ceremonies Friday night staged at the massive 60,000-seater Morodok Techo Stadium in Phnom Penh.
“We’re very grateful that women in sports are being recognized,” Valdez, who was first tasked as banner-holder in the 2015 Singapore SEA Games, said.
“We all know that many Filipinas have given honor to the country, not just in sports. It’s a big honor for us that we were given this opportunity and recognition for the pride and honor that Filipinas bring to our country.”
This tribute to Filipina athletes and a way of supporting the gender equality program of the International Olympic Committee was warmly appreciated by sports fans, especially on social media.
POC president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino and chief of mission Chito Loyzaga were the only men to join the parade of Team Philippines.
The Filipinas wore elegant Francis Libiran-designed white barongs — which the Philippine fashion icon called “Araw” — over black pants.
“Very overwhelmed. I know also for a fact that I’m joined by empowered women marching. I’m really just really inspired to share this (moment) with them,” Valdez said.
“This keeps us motivated to give pride and honor to our country in this SEA Games.”
What made the Team Philippines all-female parade extra special was the fact that two Filipinas contributed the country’s first two gold medals even before the opening celebration.
The first mint came from jiu-jitsu fighter Kaila Napolis in the 52kg. division while Kun Bokator artist Angel Gwen Derla followed suit with a strong performance in the women’s single bamboo shield.
As for Valdez, she and 13 other determined Pinay volleybelles begin their quest to end an 18-year podium drought on Tuesday against Cambodia.
