Some PH delegates for 2020 Tokyo Paralympics test positive for COVID-19

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Paralympic Committee on Sunday announced that some members of the country’s Paralympic team for the 2020 Tokyo Paralympic Games have tested positive of COVID-19.

“It is unfortunate for us to inform the public that some officials, coaches, and a para-athlete of our Philippine delegation bound for Tokyo to participate in the 2020 Paralympic Games have tested positive for COVID-19,” said Philippine Paralympic Committee President Mike Barredo in a statement.

Barredo said that the delegates are currently isolated pursuant to health protocols “to contain the virus and aid theme in their recovery.”

“Despite this setback, we are confident that our athletes will give their best in the pursuit of their Paralympic dreams and to bring honor and glory to our country,” said Barredo.

With this development, the number of PH para athletes is now down to five.

The Philippines will be participating at the 2020 Summer Paralympics in Tokyo, Japan, from August 24 to September 5, 2021 after it was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The six representatives of the Philippines for the paralympics are swimmers Ernie Gawilan and Gary Bejino, Jerrold Magnliwan and Jeanette Aceveda for athletics, Allain Ganapin for taekwondo and powerlifter Achelle Guion.

Barredo did not reveal the identity of the para athlete who tested positive for COVID-19.

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