HOUSE Deputy Speaker Mikee Romero (1-Pacman Partylist) delivered his promise to the Tokyo Olympics boxing medalists even though he is out of the country.
Romero led a virtual and simple handover ceremony of checks representing rewards to Nesthy Petecio, Carlo Paalam and Eumir Marcial at the AirAsia headquarters at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 over the weekend.
In a ceremony aptly dubbed “Bagsik Ng Kamao,” Romero fulfilled his pledge of rewarding P2 million each to silver medalists Petecio and Paalam and P1 million to bronze medalist Marcial.
“Nesthy, Carlo and Eumir brought immense pride and hope to the Filipino people amid these trying times due to the pandemic. They truly deserve these blessings,” said Romero. “But please, your Olympic journey should not stop in the Tokyo Games, the gold medal is within your reach.”
Edwin Galvez, CEO in one of Romero’s companies, and AirAsia executive Erick Arejola handed the checks to the Tokyo Olympics heroes.
Romero also stressed the significance of their victories to Philippine boxing.
“They proved once again that the Filipino can match and surpass the best in the world in boxing, like what Manny Pacquiao and our other great boxers did,” he said.
Two weeks ago, Romero personally handed a P3 million check to Hidilyn Diaz, the country’s first Olympic gold medalist.
Romero also promised Marcial of a lifetime free electricity as he operates the electric cooperative in Zamboanga City.
To his delight, Marcial stood out and unleashed some combinations before thanking the former amateur basketball godfather.
Romero also appealed to Paalam not to turn professional, telling the pride of Cagayan de Oro City that “you’re still young and the Paris 2024 Olympics beckons.”
“We are extremely proud of these sports heroes. Their achievements will surely serve as an inspiration to the next generation of Filipino boxers,” said the NorthPort owner.
The sports patron’s handing of the rewards to the three fighters couldn’t have a better timing as they were bound to return to their respective hometowns.