MANILA, Philippines — Allianz PNB Life, one of the country’s leading insurance companies, honored Wednesday its ambassador EJ Obiena at its Makati office for capturing the Hangzhou Asian Games gold medal.
“Obiena is a shining example of Filipino excellence as he has been breaking barriers and reaching new heights in international sports,” said Gino Riola, Allianz PNB Life chief marketing and sustainability officer.
“Allianz is proud to stand beside Obiena in his athletic journey, now and in the years to come,” he added.
Obiena, meanwhile, was just thankful to Allianz PNB Life for supporting his dream.
It was a busy day for the World No. 2 pole-vaulter as he also officially received his P5-million war chest from the Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. led by sports philanthropist Cecilio Pedro in Binondo, Manila earlier.
“Sports have the power to change the world, to inspire, and unite people in a way that little else does,” said Pedro. “It speaks to youth in a language they understand. Sports create hope where there was only despair.”
In all, Obiena had already received a total of P10 million to help fund his Paris Games campaign next year.
Obiena was also in Greenhills in San Juan at noon to launch his program of discovering fresh talents from the countryside who want to take up the sport.
To help fund his drive, Obiena is auctioning some of his gears he had used in winning abroad.