Ganapin was supposed to leave the country bound for Japan and compete on Friday, but as his test returned a positive result, he was banned from taking the trip. 

PPC President Mike Barredo said that taekwondo Jin from Marikina was still in Manila when the test results came out and now is under quarantine and isolation.

Initially, 23-year-old Ganapin was expected to make his Paralympic debut in the men’s K44-75kg weight class against Abulfaz Abuzarli of Azerbaijan in the round-of-16.

“We are deeply saddened to announce that our Para Taekwondo Jin Allain Ganapin, the first Filipino para-athlete to secure a slot for Para Taekwondo in the Tokyo Paralympics, tested positive for COVID-19. Consequently, he would not be able to leave for Japan due to quarantine restrictions.”

“Allain is upset in missing this opportunity, but prays that this challenge will strengthen in resolve in his later competitions,” said Barredo.

Powerlifter Achelle Guion was the first PH Para athlete who tested positive before leaving for Japan, next was discus thrower Jeanette Aceveda who was already in Paralympic village, and now is Ganapin.

“The present pandemic has created so many obstacles for our para athletes. The virus has been unforgiving and denied them the chance to bring glory and honor to the Philippines. However, this will not affect their strong resolve and will continue to push forward in the pursuit of their dreams,” said Barredo.

This development marked the PH team to cut half of their Paralympians, and only swimmer Gary Bejino and racer Jerrold Mangliwan will be in the bid for bringing a title from Tokyo Paralympics on Friday.