YOU MADE US PROUD, MICHAEL

The first time I took notice of Michael Christian Martinez was when I saw a picture of this 17-year old young man hoisting the Philippine flag at the Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia. He was the lone Philippine representative, unlike in the Summer Olympics where we send an entire delegation. He looked so proud as he waved the country's tri-colors at the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics. It was an honor that for the first time, we not only had a Philippine representative to the figure-skating event, but the first Southeast Asian representative as well.

What amazed me even more, after having read the story of how this young man ended up being a participant, was not only his determination, but the sacrifice and hardships he had to endure just to be able to compete. In a country where snow is non-existent, it is extremely difficult for a figure skater to practice his craft. What's more, we only have two skating rinks in the country located in the SM malls. Due to lack of funds, he could not afford to hire a coach. His mother even had to mortgage their house to be able to purchase a ticket to Sochi. Despite the obstacles, he was determined to represent the country, relying only on his faith and the rosary that he always carries with him.

It is very disappointing that as reports had it, he got no support from the government, but only from some cause-oriented groups and businessmen. The POC and the PSC were quick to dispute that by saying they gave some aid, but did they really or were they just being defensive. His mom said they may not be able to continue his training for the 2018 Olympics due to lack of funds to defray the expenses that go along with it. I hope next time, the government gives him the much needed support for his training.

On the night of the competition, as he so gracefully executed his moves to the background of Romeo and Juliet, I had goose pimples watching him perform amidst the applause of the audience. I felt a sense of pride knowing this young man is a Filipino. He was after all competing for the Philippines and not for himself anymore. At that particular moment, all I ever prayed for was for him to qualify for the semi-finals, which was his dream in the first place. It did not matter anymore if he won a medal or not. He did make all of us proud by qualifying in the semi-final round and landing on the 19th place out of  24 semi-finalists.

He may not have gotten that elusive medal, but he gained the attention of the whole world, and most importantly their respect.

As for the lack of support from the government, that is already water under the bridge.

He left the country quietly, but now that he has carved a name for himself, I am pretty sure when he comes home, everyone will be scampering to interview him, inviting him for television appearances, and in all possibility might even be invited to the Palace for hand shaking and photo ops. That much needed attention and recognition of his talent should have been accorded him when he was still in training, and not after the fact. Another case of too late the hero.    

Carry on Michael. I know you have set your sight on 2018. The Filipino people will be behind you all the way and we will all be praying that in God's time, you will finally realize your dream of bringing home an Olympic medal.

Win or lose, we will always be proud of you. Keep the faith, that is your strength.