Olaso Honors SEA Games Medalists, Calls Them Pride and Promise of Zamboanga

Daphne Santuyo

IPIL, ZAMBOANGA SIBUGAY - Mayor Khymer Adan Olaso today, December 24, 2025, paid tribute to the triumphant Zamboangueño athletes who delivered outstanding performances at the 33rd Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Thailand, hailing them as “living blueprints” of Zamboanga City’s discipline, resilience, and steady progress.

Speaking during a media briefing at City Hall, Mayor Olaso appeared alongside SEA Games medalists Kristine Paraon, gold medalist in rowing double sculls; Harold Ralph Ungaya, bronze medalist in pencak silat; Rey Carlo Silva, bronze medalist in karate; and Albert Ian Delos Santos, silver medalist in swimming. The mayor addressed questions on the local government’s role in developing and supporting homegrown athletic talent.

Mayor Olaso emphasized that the athletes’ achievements extend far beyond the sporting arena, serving as a powerful source of national pride and a reflection of the city’s growing potential.

“The honor they have brought to Zamboanga is not just measured in medals,” Olaso said. “Their success inspires our youth, strengthens community pride, and shows what can be achieved through discipline, perseverance, and strong institutional support.”

Anchoring his remarks on the administration’s “Zamboanga First” agenda, the mayor drew parallels between the athletes’ dedication and the city government’s push for sustainable development, particularly in infrastructure improvement and social services.

“Our athletes embody the very best of Zamboanga. Resilience, hard work, and the courage to rise against all odds,” Olaso said. “By investing in sports, education, and youth development, we are also laying the groundwork for a more progressive and competitive city.”

He further assured continued government support for initiatives that nurture talent and provide equal opportunities for Zamboangueños to excel, whether in sports, education, or other fields.

“My administration remains committed to allocating the necessary resources for infrastructure and community-based programs,” Olaso added. “Every Zamboangueño deserves the chance to succeed and bring pride to our city.”

Mayor Olaso concluded the briefing with a call for unity and shared responsibility, stressing that progress, much like athletic success requires collective effort.

“Development is a team effort,” he said. “Just as our athletes train and compete together toward one goal, we must work in unity- government agencies, communities, and leaders, to give nothing but the best for Zamboanga City.”