Marcos honors Olympians missed initial ceremony

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. held a ceremony on Thursday at Malacañang to honor Filipino athletes who competed in the 2024 Paris Olympics, specifically recognizing Dottie Ardina and gymnasts Aleah Finnegan, Emma Malabuyo, and Levi Jung-Ruivivar.

These four Olympians were among those who missed the initial heroes' welcome due to prior commitments and communication issues.

During the ceremony, each athlete received a Presidential citation and PHP2 million in cash incentives from the Office of the President and PAGCOR.

Golfer Bianca Pagdanganan was invited but could not attend as she was training overseas.

President Marcos emphasized that all athletes who represented the country should receive recognition, acknowledging a 'mix-up' that caused some to miss the first reception.

Relatives of the athletes were also present at the event, where President Marcos personally chatted with each athlete after presenting their incentives.