On early Saturday morning, Manila time, the 2024 Paris Games officially begin.
This also marks a historic moment for the Philippines as it celebrates its centennial participation in the Games.
This year, the opening ceremony promises to be unlike any other, taking place along the banks of the River Seine.
Against the breathtaking backdrop of the Eiffel Tower, 206 participating nations will parade in boats, symbolizing a new era of Olympic tradition.
Tokyo Games silver medalists Nesthy Petecio and Carlo Paalam will proudly carry the Philippine flag during this unique ceremony, which is set to commence at 1:30 AM, Manila time.
As the event unfolds, anticipation builds for the nation’s athletes who are ready to shine on sports’ biggest stage.
Team Philippines’ journey begins with rower Joanie Delgaco, who will be the first to compete from the 22-member delegation.
Delgaco’s challenge begins in Heat Two, starting at 4:24 PM, Manila time, on 27 July (Saturday). The top three finishers in each of the six heats will advance to the quarterfinals.
She will face rowers from Algeria, Morocco, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Switzerland.
Meanwhile, gymnastics prodigy Caloy Yulo looks to captivate audiences once more as he competes in the men’s qualification rounds.
The stakes are high, with Yulo aiming to secure a spot in the all-around finals and the top eight positions in each of the six apparatus events.
Scheduled in Subdivision 2, Yulo’s performance at 9:30 PM, Manila time (27 July, Saturday) is highly anticipated.
His goals are clear: to redeem himself after a challenging Tokyo campaign, where he placed 47th in the all-around.
The men’s all-around final is slated for Wednesday, with apparatus finals running from August 3 to 5.
Yulo, a product of Adamson University who was once a world champion in floor and vault, is among the favorites for multiple medals in Paris.
His journey is one of redemption and determination, promising to deliver thrilling performances.
As the Philippines embarks on its centennial Olympic journey, the nation’s athletes are set to create memorable moments and leave a mark on the world stage.
With a blend of seasoned Olympians and rising stars, the Philippine delegation is ready to compete with heart and determination, embodying the spirit of a century-long Olympic tradition.
