Courtesy: Philippine Sports Commission
Philippine Taekwondo Association secretary-general Rocky Samson reflects on the country’s historic campaign at the 20th Asian Games, where Filipino jins captured their first-ever Asiad gold medal and a record five-medal haul of one gold, three silver, and one bronze.
Samson said the breakthrough performance earned Filipino jins greater recognition and respect from their Asian rivals.
“Takot at respeto — ang taas na ng tingin nila noong nanalo na tayo ng gold, silvers and bronze. Napakataas ng tingin nila sa Pilipinas,” Samson shared on #PSCHour on Friday.
“This is the first time na nanalo ang Philippine Taekwondo Association ng gold medal, and at the same time, this is also the first time na nanalo ng pinakamaraming medalya sa Asian Games,” Samson stressed.
Beyond taekwondo, Samson is also set to lead Team Philippines as chef de mission at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, scheduled from October 31 to November 13 in Senegal, where nine Filipino youth athletes will represent the country.
“Well, this is my first time to lead the full delegation. I’m encouraging everybody to just enjoy this game and do their best, sana manalo tayong Team Philippines,” shared CDM Samson to nine youth athletes-bound for Dakar YOG.
The Philippine delegation includes Pi Durden Wangkay and Naomi Cesar in athletics; Jamesray Ajido and Rhianna Chantelle Coleman in swimming; road cyclist Maritanya Krog; wushu taolu specialist Angel Polo; artistic gymnasts Tchelzy Maayo and Hillarion Palles III; and windsurfer Jade Justiniane.
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