“We would like to thank Mr. Enrique Razon for providing our Olympics-bound athletes with vaccines,” Tolentino said. 

“Rest assured, our athletes would be protected from the virus as they escalate their training and preparation for Tokyo,” he continued. 

There have been four Filipino contenders to head on for the Tokyo Games that are composed of world champion gymnast Carlos Yulo, pole vaulter Ernest John “EJ” Obiena, and boxers Eumir Felix Marcial and Irish Magno.

In addition, several other athletes are making their way to qualifying in the games particularly in boxing, karatedo, golf, taekwondo and mountain bike, and BMX cycling.

“I’m sure that with the generosity of Mr. Razon, especially in these difficult times, would further spur our athletes to focus on the Olympics without fear of getting infected,” Tolentino shared.

Razon, chairman of International Container Terminal Services Inc. and casino operator Bloomberry Resorts Corp., has made the assurance with Tolentino on Tuesday.

Furthermore, he has agreed to be supplying the country with 20 million doses of the mRNA-1273 vaccine developed by US-based Moderna.

The Moderna vaccine was reported to cost $26 each, or approximately P1,250.

Tolentino believed that this is the best time that the Philippines have the chance of clinching its first gold medal in the Olympics. 

The country has participated in the Olympics ever since in 1924 and so far has managed to win 10 medals-three silvers and seven bronzes.

“The time is now. I believe that we are in the best position to win that Olympic gold-not one, but more,” Tolentino expressed.

Tolentino also added that he is positive that the Olympics will emerge despite escalating Covid-19 cases in Japan.

“I am a positive person. The Olympics will happen, the International Olympic Committee, and the host country [Japan] will make it happen,” Tolentino said. 

“We only have one plan and that is to win a gold medal in the Olympics. There’s no Plan B so let’s not even think that it won’t push through,” he added. 

The Tokyo organizers released what they called a playbook on protocols for the Games to all national Olympic committees.