National team weightlifting coach Agustin Antonio. Photo by Denison Dalupang/INQUIRER
MANILA, Philippines–National weightlifting mentor Agustin Antonio expects the Philippine delegation to produce medals on Tuesday as competition continues in the Southeast Asian Games at Ninoy Aquino Stadium.
“We are expecting medals,” said Antonio. “They’ve been training for the whole year and their only taking Sundays off.”
Margaret Colonia clinched a silver medal in the women’s 59-kilogram event Tuesday morning. Nestor Colonia and Elreen Ando take their try later in the day in the men’s 67kg and women’s 66kg.
SEA Games: PH’s Margaret Colonia scores silver in weightlifting
“Nine stations each day on top of their regular routines. That’s why I’m confident we could take care of things.”
Antonio’s assurance also came shortly after Elien Roze, the bet for women’s 49kg, and Dave Pacaldo for men’s 61kg, both missed the podium on Monday.
“We kind of expected falling short because it’s only their first time,” Antonio said.
“Still, I’m very happy that they showed they’re capable,” he added. “We’re still teaching them how to manage their jitters.”
Hidilyn Diaz delivered the first gold for the weightlifting team on Monday, winning her first SEA Games medal with ease in the 55-kg event the night before.