Philippine team parades in style at opening match of Paralympic Games in Paris

Dressed in colorful, ethnic-inspired outfits, Filipino Paralympians proudly march during the preliminary program of the world’s largest sporting event for people with disabilities in Paris.

MANILA, Philippines – After a successful run at the Olympic Games two weeks ago, the Philippine Paralympians are hoping to continue their winning streak in Paris after kicking off their campaign in style.

Dressed in colorful, ethnic-inspired outfits, the Philippines team marched during the parade of nations during the grand opening ceremony at the iconic Place de la Concorde and the Champs-Élysées in the French capital on Wednesday, August 28 (Thursday, August 29, Manila time).

The Filipino athletes wore national costumes made of “banaca”, a fine blend of banana and abaca fibers, in a unique ensemble designed by renowned “weaving artist” and fashion designer Ditta Sandico.

Veteran para-swimmers Ernie Gawilan and para-archer Agustina Bantiloc were the flag bearers of the six-athlete delegation from the Philippines, the country’s largest Paralympic contingent since 2012.

Wheelchair racer Jerrold Mangliwan, para-swimmer Angel Otom, para-javelin thrower Cendy Asusano and para-taekwondo player Allain Ganapin complete the betting for Paris.

Also accompanying the Filipino athletes in the parade of nations were archery coaches Gershon Bautista, track and field player Jonathan Josol, taekwondo player Berson Buen and swimmer Brian Ong.

A total of 4,350 athletes from 168 countries will compete in the world’s largest sporting event for people with disabilities. For the first time, the Paralympic Games will be held outdoors, similar to the opening Olympic Games on the Seine and concluded in front of the Trocadéro.

“Your participation in the Paralympic Games alone completes everyone’s dream of an inclusive sports community,” said Richard Bachmann, chairman of the Philippine Sports Commission, in a statement.

Bantiloc, the pride of Tanudan, Kalinga and at 56 the oldest member of Team Philippines, will open the country’s campaign in the women’s individual compound open ranking round at the archery range in Les Invalides on Thursday at 1:00 p.m. (7:00 p.m., Manila time).

– Rappler.com

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