Go congratulated Mary Francine Padios for winning the Philippines’ first gold medal in the regional meet.

He likewise commended other athletes who have clinched early silver and bronze medals for the country.

“I wish the rest of the Team Philippines a very good luck as we defend our overall championship. The Filipino people are all behind you!” cheered Go.

As of May 11, the day before the opening ceremonies in Hanoi, Team Philippines has won eight medals so far—one gold, three silvers, and four bronzes.

Padios won the country’s first gold medal in the Pencak Silat Women’s Seni Tunggal single final, defeating Indonesian Puspa Arum Sari.

Meanwhile, the men’s beach handball team settled for silver after losing 1-2 to the host Vietnam.

Filipino Kurash athletes likewise won three medals, including one silver and two bronzes.

In addition, the Philippine rowing team earned silver in the men’s lightweight double sculls and bronze in the women’s quadruple sculls, while the Pencak Silat men’s team took bronze.

Earlier, Go reaffirmed his unwavering support to the 987 Philippine delegates, who he said exemplified discipline and perseverance as they trained vigorously to represent the country at the regional sports meet to be held from May 12 to 23.

The senator also remarked that he will always be proud of the Filipino athletes regardless of the results of the competitions, adding that their perseverance and efforts are already laudable.