Para-powerlifter Achele Guion will not be able to compete in the World Paralympic Games in Tokyo after testing positive for COVID-19.
The Philippine Paralympic Committee (PPC) formally made the announcement on Tuesday in a statement after breaking the news on Sunday as Team Philippines departed for Japan.
“Jinky (Guion) is deeply frustrated that she will not be able to compete in her powerlifting event for her country after training for so long, and especially getting much inspiration from Hidilyn Diaz, a powerlifter like herself and the first Filipino to win an Olympic medal,’’ said PPC President Michael Barredo in the statement.
Apart from Ms. Guion, also testing positive was her coach Antonio Taguibao, team Chef de Mission Francis Diaz and para-athletics coach Joel Deriada.
Their positive results were known before the team left for Tokyo at the weekend and they were no longer allowed to join the contigent for the trip.
With the unexpected turn of events, Mr. Barredo took over as chef de mission in the absence of Mr. Diaz to implement tasks involving planning, logistics, and communications, among others, for the team’s orderly navigation in the Paralympics.
“Despite this most unfortunate development, all our para-athletes remain in high spirits and committed to giving their best possible performances to bring honor and glory for our country. Tuloy ang laban. Mabuhay ang atletang Pilipino,’’ said Mr. Barredo, who will likewise function as the head of the delegation of Team Philippines.
The Tokyo Paralympic Games kicked off on Tuesday and will take place until Sept. 5. — MASM
