The Zamboanga delegation to the 7th National PARA Games held in Malolos, Bulacan from May 23-30 harvested 14 medals in various sports competitions proving that disability is not an obstacle to success.

The medalists formed part of the Philippine Sports Association for Differently-abled (PHILSPADA)-ZC Chapter, whose participation in the national sports competition was made possible with the support of the City Government through the Persons with Disabilities Unit (PDAU) under the Social Welfare and Development Office.

They include Muhaimin Ulag, who won 2 gold medals in swimming (50 and 100 meters); Marites Abon- one gold medal in 100 meters swimming; Ronnie Alico – 1 Bronze Medal (400 M Freestyle Swimming) and 1 Silver Medal (100 M swimming); Joseph Gregana – 3 silver medals in standard and rapid chess and 1 bronze medal in blitz chess; Francisco Delos Santos- 2 Silver Medals in Rapid and Standard Chess and 2 Bronze Medals in Rapid Chess under the team and individual categories and Layzner Reputana -1 Silver Medal in the 100 m dash run.

With the results of the 7th National PARA Games, the PHILSPADA-ZCC intends to conduct early preparations for next year’s competition with selection of PWD athletes from the different barangays in the city.

The association plans to hold the Inter-Barangay Sports Competition come October 2019 as part of the Zamboanga Hermosa Festival to provide greater opportunities for PWDs to participate in sports events.

The delegation to the PARA Games in Bulacan was accompanied by Uldarico Fabian of the CSWDO, PHILSPADA President Teddy Kahil and PDAU head Rose Ann Suarez and staff Henry Salac. Coaches were
Emerita Amora for chess, Rene Sta Teressa for swimming, Joel Mapiso for goal ball and Rose Ann Suarres for bowling.

The Zamboanga delegation expressed gratitude to Mayor Beng Climaco, Vice Mayor-elect Rommel Agan, District II Cong. Manuel Dalipe Jr. for the all-out support and commitment to the PWD sector in the city.