Pinoy Olympians salute MVP, taekwondo’s Sun

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines Olympians Association will honor Sun Chong-hong, the father of Philippine taekwondo, and Smart Communications during its annual gathering on June 23 at City Club, Alphaland Makati Place in Makati City.

POA president Art Macapagal, a two-time Olympian and former shooting association president, has called on all living members of the elite group to grace the reunion where MVP Sports Foundation will also be feted for its heavy involvement in sports.

Smart Communications, headed by sports patron Manny V. Pangilinan, will be cited for its sustained support to Philippine sports.

“We want to create more awareness for these Filipino athletes who have given honor to the country,” said Macapagal. “At the same time, we want to recognize individuals and groups who have contributed to Philippine sports.”

Among those expected to attend are 1960 Rome Olympian swimmer Haydee Coloso-Espino and 1988 Seoul Olympian weightlifter Sammy Alegada. Gilas Pilipinas coach Chot Reyes was invited to give an inspirational talk.

Rafael Hechanova of basketball is POA chair, taekwondo’s Stephen Fernandez (vice president), swimmer Ral Rosario (secretary general) and Akiko Thomson-Guevara (treasurer).