Samahang Weightlifting ng Pilipinas president Monico Puentevella wants to showcase the strength of the Filipino youth as the country bids to host the Asian Juniors and Youth Championship next year.
Puentevella told Daily Tribune he wants the tournament to be held in Manila but declined to provide other details pending the verdict from the International Weightlifting Federation.
If awarded hosting rights, Puentevella swears it will be an opportunity for the Philippines to showcase its talent.
“It will most likely be in a big mall. It has to be approved first by the International Weightlifting Federation. The moment it is approved, I will reveal the details,” Puentevella said.
“We have been winning gold medals left and right in the World Youth Championship which means it is now high time we bid because we know that we can win.”
Young lifters Rosalinda Faustino of the women’s 55-kilogram event, Prince de los Santos of the men’s 49-kg event and Angeline Colonia of the women’s 49-kg event took home gold medals in the 2023 IWF World Youth Championship last March in Durres, Albania.
Colonia and Faustino also picked up silver medals in their respective weight categories recently at the 32nd Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia.
Puentevella said foreign athletes want to travel to the Philippines and should the bid be successful, he will call on the support of the national government.
“We have better chances because the Philippines has now gotten the respect of International Weightlifting Federation members. Everybody wants to come to the Philippines,” Puentevella said.
“It’s high time. With the help of the government, President BBM (Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr.) and everybody, we will be happy to host the games,” Puentevella said.
