Mangliwan advances, Bantiloc falters in Paris

MANILA, Philippines —  The Philippines’ suffered contrasting fates as wheelchair racer Jerrold Mangliwan advanced to the medal round while archer Agustina Bantiloc crashed out in the 17th Paralympics in Paris yesterday.

Mangliwan clocked one minute and 5.79 seconds in his heat and made the cut in the men’s 400-meter T52 finals set today at the sprawling Stade de France.

While Mangliwan stayed alive in golden contention, Bantiloc went out after succumbing to Brazilian Jane Karla Gogel, 143-127 (25-29, 28-29, 24-29, 27-29, 23-27), in the opening knockout round of the women’s individual compound.

Competing in the sports extravaganza for the third straight time, Mangliwan, racing in lane No. 6, finished fourth in the first heat where the top three finishers qualified, led by sensational Belgian world champion Maxime Carabine, who set a personal record of 54.48 seconds.

“Talagang mabagal dahil sa ulan. At medyo kinabahan din kasi ‘yung top three sa bawat heat ang pasok kaagad sa finals,” said Mangliwan with a sigh of relief moments after being informed that he had qualified.

“Buti na lang nagdala ako ng special gloves para sa ulan,” added Mangliwan, who is seeking redemption after being disqualified in the Tokyo edition in the finals three years ago for crossing the wrong lane.

“If Jerrold is able to match his personal best, he might have a fighting chance of a podium finish,” noted  Philippine Paralympic Committee president Mike Barredo, who was on hand in the company of PSC Chairman Richard Bachmann.

Swimmer Ernie Gawilan and taekwondo jin Allain Ganapin launch their own journey and will plunge into action today.

Meanwhile, President Marcos wished for the success of Filipino athletes in Paris.

In a post on Facebook on Thursday night, Marcos said Filipino Paralympians Angel Mae Otom, Agustina Maximo Bantiloc, Cendy Asusano, Pete Mangliwan, Ganapin and Gawilan, and“are all already champions in our eyes.”

“Compete with the heart of Filipino warriors, and show the world the strength of our people. We are all immensely proud of you. Best of luck,” the President said.