MANILA – President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. thanked Filipina boxers Nesthy Petecio and Aira Villegas for taking home a bronze medal each in the 2024 Paris Olympics in Paris, France.
The Chief Executive lauded Petecio’s performance even if she fell short against Poland’s Julia Szeremeta in the semifinal match of the women’s 57 kg division.
“Congratulations, Nesthy! Thank you for bringing home the bronze medal for the Philippines,” Marcos said in a Facebook post on early Thursday.
“You’ve truly shown the world how Filipinos never back down from a challenge. The whole country is proud of you! Taas kamao, para boxingerong Pilipino,” the President added.
Marcos separately congratulated Villegas after taking home a bronze medal in the women’s 50 kg class after bowing to Türkiye’s Buse Naz Çakıroğlu in the semifinals round.
The President said Villegas’ podium finish on her first-ever Olympic stint is an inspiration to younger Filipinos who aspires to represent the country soon.
“Congratulations, Aira! That was a knockout performance in your Olympic debut! You made us all proud and are surely an inspiration to young Filipinas,” Marcos said.
“Thank you for bringing home the bronze. Mabuhay ka!” the President added on his Facebook post.
Under the Republic Act (RA) 10699 or the National Athletes, Coaches and Trainers Benefits and Incentives Act, both Petecio and Villegas will receive P2 million each from the government for her Olympic bronze medal feats./PN
