Michael Bayani clinches bronze at the 31.2-km ITT as competition marred by confusion at the 13th ASEAN Para Games in Thailand

Michael Bayani clinches bronze at the ITT as competition marred by confusion and dismay at the 13th ASEAN Para Games in Thailand.

On the flip side, the Philippine Team is expressing deep dismay at the turn of events at the 13th ASEAN Para Games in Thailand.

The country’s eight-strong cycling delegation arrived expecting to compete in different categories and earn separate honors. Instead, they were shocked to find themselves forced to compete against their very own teammates.

According to Head Coach Norberto Oconer:”Pinagsama-sama [na ang mga riders] dahil kasi konti nga ang nag-event. Pinaglaban-laban na lahat [kahit magkakampi]. Kaya yung apat na tao natin, imbes na tatlong event yon, naging isa na lang.“

The core of the story: The Team traveled to these Games to represent the country against neighboring countries, only to be pitted against one another.

This abrupt consolidation of categories hasn’t just caused dismay—it has directly reduced our para-athletes’ opportunity to bring home multiple medals for the country, as Oconer added.