LIST: 28 Filipino athletes in the 2024 Paris Olympics and Paralympics
The Philippines is set to make history as it competes in both the 2024 Summer Olympics and Paralympics, marking a century of participation since its debut in the same city. With a determined delegation of 28 Filipino athletes, the nation is poised to shine on the global sporting stage.
The Philippines has a rich Olympic legacy, having participated in every edition of the Summer Games since 1924, except for the Moscow 1980 Olympics. The country is eager to build upon its achievements and inspire a new generation of athletes.
The 2024 Paris Olympics will take place from July 26 to August 11, followed by the Paralympics from August 28 to September 8.
Philippine Olympic Team 2024
The Philippine Olympic team is composed of talented athletes across various disciplines:
- Athletics: Ernest John Obiena, Lauren Hoffman, John Cabang Tolentino
- Gymnastics: Carlos Edriel Yulo, Aleah Finnegan, Levi Jung-Ruivivar, Emma Malabuyo
- Boxing: Eumir Marcial, Aira Villegas, Nesthy Petecio, Carlo Paalam, Hergie Bacyadan
- Weightlifting: John Ceniza, Elreen Ann Ando, Vanessa Sarno
- Rowing: Joanie Delgaco
- Fencing: Samantha Catantan
- Judo: Kiyomi Watanabe
- Golf: Bianca Pagdanganan, Dottie Ardina
- Swimming: Kayla Sanchez, Jarod Hatch
EJ Obiena: Philippines’ Pole Vaulting Pride
Ernest John “EJ” Obiena is the Philippines’ leading hope for an Olympic medal in athletics. The 28-year-old pole vaulter has rapidly risen to global prominence, establishing himself as one of the world’s top athletes in his discipline.
A key figure in Philippine sports, Obiena secured his spot in the Paris Olympics by clearing the qualifying height of 5.82 meters at the BAUHAUS-Galan leg of the Diamond League in Stockholm, Sweden. This marks his second consecutive Olympic appearance, showcasing his consistent performance at the highest level of competition.
Currently ranked as the world’s number two pole vaulter behind Mondo Duplantis, Obiena is coming off a stellar 2023 season. He achieved a historic milestone by breaking both the Asian and personal record with a 6-meter jump. This remarkable feat, coupled with his early qualification for Paris, has generated immense excitement and anticipation for his Olympic campaign.
With his exceptional talent, unwavering determination, and growing experience, Obiena is poised to make a significant impact at the Paris Olympics. The Philippines is eagerly behind him as he strives to bring home the country’s first-ever Olympic gold medal in athletics.
See: EJ Obiena schedule, results, highlights
Lauren Hoffman: Philippines’ Rising Hurdle Star
Lauren Hoffman is a Filipino-American hurdler who has made history by becoming the first Filipino woman to qualify for the Olympics in the 400-meter hurdles. Born on March 30, 1999, in the United States, Hoffman decided to represent the Philippines, her mother’s homeland, in 2023.
A graduate of Duke University, where she was a standout track and field athlete, Hoffman quickly made a name for herself in the Philippine sporting scene. She holds the national record in both the 100-meter and 400-meter hurdles, showcasing her exceptional talent and versatility.
Hoffman’s qualification for the Paris Olympics was a nail-biter, as she secured the 39th and final spot in the women’s 400-meter hurdles through the world rankings. This historic achievement has positioned her as a rising star in Philippine athletics and a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes.
See: Lauren Hoffman schedule, results, highlights
John Cabang Tolentino: Philippines’ Hurdling Hope
John Cabang Tolentino is a Filipino hurdler making waves in the international athletics scene. Born on August 27, 2001, he has quickly established himself as a promising athlete with the potential to make a significant impact on Philippine sports.
Based in Spain, Tolentino secured his spot in the Paris Olympics through the world rankings, finishing 30th out of 40 qualifiers in the men’s 110-meter hurdles. This remarkable achievement came just months after he shattered the Philippine record in the same event, clocking in at 13.37 seconds.
Tolentino’s journey to the Olympics is a testament to his dedication, hard work, and exceptional talent. As a rising star in Philippine athletics, he carries the hopes of the nation and is expected to make a strong showing in Paris.
Beyond his Olympic qualification, Tolentino has also showcased his prowess on the international stage, winning a bronze medal at the 2024 Asian Indoor Athletics Championships in Tehran. This achievement further solidifies his status as a rising star in Asian athletics.
See: John Cabang Tolentino schedule, results, highlights
Carlos Yulo: The Philippines’ Gymnastics Gem
Carlos Edriel Yulo is a Filipino gymnastics sensation who has captured the hearts of the nation with his extraordinary talent and unwavering dedication. Born on February 16, 2000, in Manila, Philippines, Yulo has quickly risen to become one of the world’s top gymnasts.
A trailblazer in Philippine sports, Yulo made history in 2018 by becoming the first Filipino and Southeast Asian male gymnast to win a medal at the World Artistic Gymnastics Championships, securing a bronze in the floor exercise. He further solidified his status as a global star by clinching the gold medal in the same event at the 2019 World Championships.
Yulo’s consistent brilliance has earned him multiple medals in international competitions, including the Asian Games and Southeast Asian Games. His dynamic performances, characterized by precision, power, and artistry, have made him a crowd favorite and a role model for aspiring Filipino athletes.
The 24-year-old secured his spot in the Paris Olympics by finishing as the highest-ranked eligible athlete in the floor exercise at the 2023 World Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Antwerp, Belgium. This marks his second Olympic appearance, and with his unwavering determination and world-class skills, Yulo is aiming to bring home the Philippines’ first-ever Olympic gold medal in gymnastics.
See: Carlos Yulo schedule, results, highlights
Aleah Finnegan: Philippines’ Gymnastics Rising Star
Aleah Finnegan is a Filipino-American gymnast who has made a significant impact on Philippine sports. Born on January 4, 2003, in St. Louis, Missouri, she initially represented the United States in gymnastics.
A former member of the U.S. national gymnastics team and a gold medalist at the 2019 Pan American Games, Finnegan made the courageous decision to represent the Philippines, her mother’s homeland, in 2022.
Finnegan secured her spot on the Philippine team by placing 32nd in the women’s all-around event at the 2023 World Artistic Gymnastics Championships, becoming the first Filipina gymnast to qualify for the Olympics since 1964.
With her impressive skills on vault and balance beam, highlighted by bronze medals at the 2023 Asian Championships, Finnegan is poised to make a significant impact on the world stage.
See: Aleah Finnegan schedule, results, highlights
Levi Jung-Ruivivar: Philippines’ Gymnastics Rising Star
Levi Jung-Ruivivar is a Filipino-American gymnast. Born on May 3, 2006, in Los Angeles, California, she initially represented the United States in gymnastics.
In a significant move, Jung-Ruivivar decided to represent the Philippines opening a new chapter in her athletic career.
Jung-Ruivivar secured her spot in the Paris Olympics through a remarkable performance at the 2024 FIG World Cup series. She clinched a silver medal on the uneven bars in Doha, Qatar, earning enough points to qualify for the Games. This achievement marks a historic moment for Philippine gymnastics, as she becomes the third Filipino gymnast to qualify for the Olympics.
See: Levi Jung-Ruivivar schedule, results, highlights
Emma Malabuyo: Philippines’ Gymnastics Rising Star
Emma Malabuyo is a Filipino-American gymnast. Born on November 5, 2002, in Mountain View, California, she initially represented the United States in gymnastics, achieving notable success.
A former member of the U.S. national gymnastics team and an alternate for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Malabuyo made the courageous decision to represent the Philippines, her grandparents’ country, in 2023.
Malabuyo secured her spot in the Paris Olympics by clinching a bronze medal in the individual all-around event at the Asian Gymnastics Championships in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. This historic achievement made her the fourth Filipino gymnast to qualify for the Olympics.
See: Emma Malabuyo schedule, results, highlights
Eumir Marcial: Philippines’ Boxing Gold Medal Hope
Eumir Marcial is a Filipino boxing sensation. Born on October 29, 1995, in Zamboanga City, he has quickly risen to become one of the Philippines’ most celebrated athletes.
A decorated amateur boxer, Marcial has achieved remarkable success, including a bronze medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and a silver medal at the 2019 World Championships. He has also won multiple gold medals at the Southeast Asian Games, solidifying his status as a dominant force in Asian boxing.
Marcial secured his spot in the Paris Olympics by finishing in the top two of the men’s 80kg division at the Asian Games. This will be his second Olympic appearance, and with his experience, skill, and unwavering determination, he is aiming to bring home the gold medal for the Philippines.
As a national hero and a role model for aspiring Filipino boxers, Marcial carries the hopes of the nation on his shoulders. His journey from a young boy with big dreams to an Olympic medalist is an inspiration to millions.
See: Carlo Paalam schedule, results, highlights
Aira Villegas: Philippines’ Boxing Rising Star
Aira Villegas is a Filipino boxer who has made significant strides in her career. Born on August 1, 1995, in Tacloban City, she has represented the Philippines in various international competitions, showcasing her talent and determination.
Villegas secured her spot in the Paris Olympics by winning a qualifying match at the 1st World Qualification Tournament in Busto Arsizio, Italy. She will compete in the women’s 50kg weight class, representing the Philippines on the world stage.
A seasoned boxer, Villegas has previously competed in the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, and won a bronze medal at the 2019 Southeast Asian Games held in the Philippines. Her experience and achievements make her a strong contender in the upcoming Olympics.
See: Aira Villegas schedule, results, highlights
Nesthy Petecio: Philippines’ Boxing Pioneer
Nesthy Petecio is a Filipino boxing sensation. Born on April 11, 1992, in Davao del Sur, she has become a trailblazer for women’s boxing in the Philippines.
A decorated amateur boxer, Petecio made history by winning a silver medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, becoming the first Filipina to win an Olympic medal in boxing. She has also achieved remarkable success at the World Championships, clinching a silver medal in 2014 and a gold medal in 2019.
Petecio secured her spot in the Paris Olympics by qualifying through the 1st Olympic boxing qualifiers in Italy. With her experience, skill, and unwavering determination, she is aiming to bring home the gold medal for the Philippines and solidify her legacy as one of the country’s greatest boxers.
Petecio will be one of the Philippines’ flag bearers along with Carlo Paalam in the opening ceremony on July 26 (Paris time).
See: Nesthy Petecio schedule, results, highlights
Carlo Paalam: Philippines’ Boxing Silver Medalist
Carlo Paalam is a Filipino boxing sensation who captured the hearts of the nation with his silver medal win at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Born on July 16, 1998, in Talakag, Bukidnon, Paalam’s journey from humble beginnings to Olympic glory is a testament to his unwavering determination and exceptional talent.
A decorated amateur boxer, Paalam has achieved remarkable success, including a silver medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and multiple medals at the Southeast Asian Games and Asian Games. His speed, agility, and precise punches have made him a formidable opponent in the ring.
Paalam secured his spot in the Paris Olympics by winning a qualifying match at the 2nd Olympic Boxing Qualification Tournament in Bangkok, Thailand. This will be his second Olympic appearance, and with his experience, skill, and unwavering determination, he is aiming to bring home the gold medal for the Philippines.
See: Carlo Paalam schedule, results, highlights
Hergie Bacyadan: Philippines’ Boxing Trailblazer
Hergie Bacyadan is a Filipino boxer who has made history by qualifying for the Paris Olympics. Born on November 4, 1994, in Quezon City, Bacyadan has a unique background in martial arts, having excelled in both wushu and vovinam before transitioning to boxing.
A versatile athlete, Bacyadan is the first Filipino to win a gold medal in the Vovinam World Championships. Her transition to boxing was strategic, aiming to increase her chances of competing at the Olympics.
Bacyadan secured her spot in the Paris Olympics by winning a quarterfinal match at the 2nd World Boxing Olympic Qualification Tournament in Bangkok, Thailand.
This achievement makes her the fifth Filipino boxer to qualify for the Games.
See: Hergie Bacyadan schedule, results, highlights
John Ceniza: Philippines’ Weightlifting Rising Star
John Ceniza is a Filipino weightlifter who has quickly risen to prominence in the sport. Born on February 7, 1998, in Cebu City, he has showcased exceptional talent and dedication, positioning himself as one of the Philippines’ top weightlifters.
Ceniza secured his spot in the Paris Olympics through a strong performance at the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) World Cup in Phuket, Thailand, where he finished fourth in the men’s 61kg category. This achievement marks a significant milestone in his career, as it will be his debut at the Olympics.
A seasoned weightlifter, Ceniza has represented the Philippines in various international competitions, including the World Weightlifting Championships and the Asian Championships. He has also won medals at the Southeast Asian Games, showcasing his dominance in the region.
See: John Ceniza schedule, results, highlights
Elreen Ando: Philippines’ Weightlifting Rising Star
Elreen Ando is a Filipino weightlifter who has quickly risen to prominence in the sport. Born on November 1, 1998, in Cebu City, she has showcased exceptional talent and dedication, positioning herself as one of the Philippines’ top weightlifters.
Ando secured her spot in the Paris Olympics through a competitive battle with fellow Filipina weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz at the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) World Cup in Phuket, Thailand. She emerged victorious, securing a place in the women’s 59kg category.
A rising star in the sport, Ando has consistently impressed in international competitions, including the Southeast Asian Games where she shattered the record in 2023. Her previous Olympic experience, where she finished seventh in the Tokyo Games, has prepared her for the challenges of competing at the highest level.
See: Elreen Ando schedule, results, highlights
Vanessa Sarno: Philippines’ Weightlifting Rising Star
Vanessa Sarno is a Filipino weightlifting sensation. Born on September 28, 2003, in Tagbilaran City, Bohol, she has showcased exceptional talent and dedication, positioning herself as one of the Philippines’ top weightlifters.
Sarno secured her spot in the Paris Olympics through a strong performance at the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) World Cup in Phuket, Thailand, where she shattered the Philippine record in the snatch event with a lift of 110kg. Her impressive total lift of 245kg secured her place in the women’s 71kg category.
A rising star in the sport, Sarno has consistently impressed in international competitions, including the Southeast Asian Games where she is the reigning champion. With her impressive strength, technical proficiency, and unwavering determination, Sarno is poised to make a significant impact on the world stage. As a representative of the Philippines, she carries the hopes of the nation and is expected to inspire a new generation of Filipino weightlifters.
See: Vanessa Sarno schedule, results, highlights
Joanie Delgaco: Philippines’ Rowing Pioneer
Joanie Delgaco is a Filipino rower who has made history by becoming the first Filipina to qualify for the Olympics in the sport. Born on March 1, 1998, she has quickly become a prominent figure in Philippine rowing.
Delgaco secured her spot in the Paris Olympics through a strong performance at the World Rowing Asian and Oceanian Olympic Qualification Regatta in Chungju, South Korea, where she finished fourth in the women’s single sculls. This historic achievement marks a significant milestone for Philippine rowing and opens new possibilities for the sport in the country.
A seasoned rower, Delgaco has represented the Philippines in various international competitions, including the Southeast Asian Games where she has won multiple medals, including a gold in 2019 and a silver and two bronzes in 2021. Her experience and dedication have made her a role model for aspiring Filipino rowers.
As the Philippines’ first female Olympic rower, she carries the hopes of the nation and is expected to inspire a new generation of Filipino athletes.
See: Joanie Delgaco schedule, results, highlights
Samantha Catantan: Philippines’ Fencing Pioneer
Samantha Catantan is a Filipino fencer who has made history by becoming the first Filipino fencer to qualify for the Olympics in over three decades. Born on February 1, 2002, she has quickly risen to prominence in the sport.
Catantan secured her spot in the Paris Olympics by winning the women’s foil category at the Asia-Oceania Zonal Olympic Qualifier in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates. This historic achievement marks a significant milestone for Philippine fencing and opens new possibilities for the sport in the country.
A seasoned fencer, Catantan has represented the Philippines in various international competitions, including the Southeast Asian Games where she has won multiple medals, including a gold in 2021. She has also excelled at the Asian level, winning a gold medal at the 2019 Asian Under-23 Fencing Championship.
With her exceptional fencing skills, tactical prowess, and unwavering determination, Catantan is poised to make a significant impact on the world stage. As the Philippines’ sole fencing representative at the Paris Olympics, she carries the hopes of the nation and is expected to inspire a new generation of Filipino fencers.
See: Samantha Catantan schedule, results, highlights
Kiyomi Watanabe: Philippines’ Judo Spearhead
Kiyomi Watanabe is a Filipino-Japanese judoka who has made significant contributions to Philippine judo. Born on August 25, 1996, in Cebu City, Watanabe has been representing the Philippines in international competitions since a young age.
Watanabe secured her second consecutive Olympic appearance by clinching one of the two continental quotas reserved for Asia in the women’s -63kg category.
A seasoned judoka, Watanabe has won multiple gold medals at the Southeast Asian Games and a silver medal at the Asian Games, showcasing her dominance in the region. Her participation in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where she served as the Philippine flagbearer, marked a historic moment for Philippine judo.
See: Kiyomi Watanabe schedule, results, highlights
Bianca Pagdanganan: Philippines’ Golfing Rising Star
Bianca Pagdanganan is a Filipino professional golfer who has made a significant impact on the international golf scene.
Born on October 28, 1997, in Quezon City, she has showcased exceptional talent and dedication, positioning herself as one of the Philippines’ top golfers.
Pagdanganan secured her spot in the Paris Olympics by qualifying through the world rankings, securing a place in the top 60 golfers. This will be her second Olympic appearance, as she previously competed in the Tokyo Games in 2021.
A product of collegiate golf, Pagdanganan played for Gonzaga University and the University of Arizona, where she contributed to the Wildcats’ 2018 NCAA Division I Women’s Golf Championship win. She turned professional in 2020 and has since competed on the LPGA Tour.
See: Bianca Pagdanganan schedule, results, highlights
Dottie Ardina: Philippines’ Golfing Veteran
Dottie Ardina is a Filipino professional golfer who has made a significant impact on the sport. Born on December 2, 1993, in Calamba, Laguna, she has showcased exceptional talent and dedication, positioning herself as one of the Philippines’ top golfers.
Ardina secured her spot in the Paris Olympics through the world rankings, securing a place in the top 60 golfers. This will be her second Olympic appearance, as she initially qualified for the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics but withdrew due to concerns about the Zika virus.
A seasoned golfer, Ardina has competed on both the LPGA and Epson Tours, gaining valuable experience and achieving notable success.
See: Dottie Ardina schedule, results, highlights
Kayla Sanchez: Philippines’ Swimming Sensation
Kayla Sanchez is a Filipino-Canadian swimmer who has made a significant impact on both Canadian and Philippine swimming. Born on April 7, 2001, in Singapore, she initially represented Canada, where she achieved remarkable success, including two Olympic medals at the Tokyo 2020 Games.
In a historic move, Sanchez decided to represent the Philippines, her parents’ homeland, in 2022. This decision generated immense excitement and anticipation among Filipino swimming fans.
Sanchez secured her spot in the Paris Olympics through a universality place, ensuring her participation in the women’s 100-meter freestyle event. With her exceptional speed, competitive drive, and experience at the highest level, she is poised to make a significant impact on the world stage for the Philippines.
See: Kayla Sanchez schedule, results, highlights
Jarod Hatch: Philippines’ Butterfly Specialist
Jarod Hatch is a Filipino swimmer who has emerged as a strong competitor in the butterfly stroke. Born on December 10, 1998, in Daly City, California, he honed his skills in the United States before representing the Philippines, his family’s homeland.
Hatch secured his spot in the Paris Olympics through a universality place, allowing him to compete in the men’s 100-meter butterfly event.
A decorated athlete, Hatch has previously won three medals at the Southeast Asian Games, showcasing his talent and potential.
See: Jarod Hatch schedule, results, highlights
Philippine Paralympic Team 2024
The Philippine Paralympic team is equally impressive, with athletes demonstrating exceptional skill and determination:
- Para Swimming: Ernie Gawilan, Angel Otom
- Para Taekwondo: Allain Keanu Ganapin
- Para Archery: Agustina Bantiloc
- Para Athletics: Jerrold Pete Mangliwan (Wheelchair Racing), Cendy Asusano (Para Javelin Throw)
As the Philippines embarks on this historic dual campaign, the nation is united in supporting its athletes. Their dedication and perseverance serve as an inspiration to millions, and the country eagerly anticipates their triumphs on the world stage.
