Team PH Paralympics team member tests positive for COVID-19

Some members of the Philippine contingent bound for the Tokyo Paralympics this week have unfortunately tested positive for COVID-19.

The Philippine Paralympic Committee (PPC) announced Sunday afternoon that some officials, coaches, and a para-athlete have contracted the dreaded virus. No names were disclosed in the brief statement.

“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 tested positive for COVID-19,” it read.

Those who tested positive are presently in isolation in accordance to health and safety protocols, the PPC added.

Chef de Mission Francis Diaz said that the delegation has already landed in Japan, while those who tested positive did not join the trip anymore.

The Paralympic Games will run from August 24 to September 5, with six Filipinos out to emulate the same success their abled counterparts did in the 32nd Summer Olympiad that took place just a couple of weeks ago.

All set to compete are wheelchair racer Jerrold Mangliwan, para-swimmers Ernie Gawilan and Gary Bejino, powerlifter Achelle Guion, discus thrower Jeanette Aceveda, and taekwondo jin Allain Ganapin.

“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,” the PPC said.