People in Sports

PEOPLE Asia paid tribute to the Southeast Asian Games champions and the nation’s other sports heroes during the launch of its special sports edition at the Citrus Bar in Glorietta, Makati City. Packed with gold and silver medallists, the launch party was emceed by STAR sports columnist Quinito Henson and PEOPLE Asia account executive Champagne Morales.

This special sports issue is the brainchild of PEOPLE Asia chairman and publisher Max Soliven. It is filled with stories on more than 20 athletes and major supporters. Each tale chronicles their rise to sports glory and all the blood and sweat they have poured in their athletic craft.

In the special sports issue, which was prepared with STAR sports editors Lito Tacujan and Gerry Carpio, boxing champion Manny Pacquiao talks about how he pours his heart and soul for every match. "I pray a lot. I know whatever happens in my life is God’s will so I thank God every day for all His blessings," Pacquiao said in an interview with Henson.

This special edition also features the SEAG’s most awarded athlete Miguel Molina, who trains his sights on the Olympics. Diver Sheila Mae Perez, the first Filipino athlete in the games to grab three gold medals, relates her journey from a wharf platform in Davao to world glory. Taekwondo veteran and former world silver medallist Donald Geisler talks about the main inspiration in his life.

Wushu’s Rene Catalan is quietly racking up admirers all over the world. Harry Tañamor aims for his last shot at glory in Beijing. The multifaceted Viktoria Agbayani shows that her talents extend beyond music. Rubilen Amit racks up the wins. Golfer Juvic Pagunsan mixes family with fun.

Former world champion Alex Pagulayan proves he’s king in his sport. Amaya Paz hits the bullseye of victory. Taekwondo upstart Toni Rivero shows her kicks of confidence. Karate champ and recent reality TV star Gretchen Malalad proves that beauty and brawn can mix. Rower Benjie Tolentino reveals just how much effort it takes to be a winner.

Liza Clutario bowls us over with her inspiring story. Miguel Mendoza makes one big splash in sports. Markwin Tee strikes up a medal in the games. First Gentleman Mike Arroyo, Philippine Olympic Committee chairman Peping Cojuangco and Jean Henri Lhuillier share their plans of saving Philippine sport.

These and more are in PEOPLE Asia’s champion sports edition.

(PEOPLE Asia is published by STARGATE Media Corp. with Max Soliven as chairman and publisher. For inquiries, please call 892-1854 and look for Janette.)