Hero’s welcome still awaits Barriga

TAGUM CITY—Despite his elimination from the London Olympics following a razor-thin loss against a much taller opponent, Mark Anthony Barriga could still expect a hero’s welcome when he returns to his hometown Panabo City in Davao del Norte.

The 19-year-old light flyweight bowed out of the London Games following a 16-17 loss to Birzhan Zhakypov of Kazakhstan in their round of 16 match in the 49-kg division Saturday night.

Generose Tecson, chief of staff of second district Rep. Anton Lagdameo, said Barriga fought with his heart, and that “he’s still our champion.”

“I was somehow disappointed but Mark did his best” said Amateur Boxing Association of the Philippines (ABAP) provincial chair Edwin Pardillo.

Pardillo said Barriga could still improve his skills and train for 2016.

Tecson said the congressional office is also considering honoring Barriga.

“We’re so proud of him. For us, he won and no one can take that away,” said Tecson. Frinston L. Lim, Inquirer Mindanao