“It is unfortunate for us to inform the public that some officials, coaches, and a para-athlete of our Philippine delegation bound for Tokyo to participate in the 2020 Paralympic Games have tested positive for COVID-19,” the statement read.

Also, the identities of the members who tested positive were not mentioned and were left behind as the other members left the country for Japan last Sunday.

“They are currently isolated pursuant to health protocols to contain the virus and to aid them in their recovery,” said Barredo.

Nevertheless, Barredo averred that they are confident in what the PH team can bring.

“Despite this setback, we are confident that our athletes will give their best in the pursuit of their Paralympic dreams and to bring honor and glory to our country,” Barredo

While  Philippine chef de mission Francis Carlos B. Diaz shared his sentiments in a short message to BusinessWorld saying that “this is just unfortunate, but the fight continues for us.”

The PH delegation has six Filipinos qualified—Ernie Gawilan and Gary Bejino, Jerrold Mangliwan and Jeanette Aceveda, Allain Ganapin, and Achelle Guion.