The Senate on Monday, September 19 adopted the resolution commending and hailing pole vaulter Ernest John “EJ” Obiena for his latest success during this year’s tournaments.
The Upper Chamber adopted Senator Pia Cayetano’s Senate Resolution No. 212, taking into consideration other measures filed on Obiena’s athletic performance, during the plenary session.
The 26-year old Obiena is currently Asia’s top pole vaulter. He now ranks third worldwide.
“The Senate has been a witness to a lot of trials EJ has endured. But we hope that in the months and years to come, we can rally behind not just EJ, but other elite athletes we have,” Cayetano said in her sponsorship speech.
“So, EJ, we are very, very proud of you. You are truly deserving of this resolution that we are going to give you. And I pray and hope that you continue to be an inspiration to the Filipino youth, continue to be humble, continue to work hard,” she further said.
For his part, Sen. Jinggoy Estrada hailed Obiena’s success and impressive medal haul are due to his steadfast determination, perseverance, and commitment to excellence, despite the series of serious challenges that were thrown his way.
“What sets our very own pole vault champion apart from the others, and what makes his victory even sweeter, is the number of challenges he had to overcome to reach this point,” Estrada said in his co-sponsorship speech.
“Hindi po naging madali ang mga pinagdaaan ng batang ito ngayong taon (This year was not easy for this young man). He had knee surgery early this year. He contracted COVID in the middle of the year, causing him to miss some competitions and of course, there is also the high-profile controversy with PATAFA (Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association),” Estrada pointed out.
“But just like a true and professional athlete, he kept his calm and focus, and employed such difficulties to his advantage as fuel to fire up his motivation to win and excel, and represent the nation well before the international stage. Truly, EJ itong si EJ – Extraordinary Jumper,” he emphasized.
Obiena was physically present at the Senate plenary session when the resolution was adopted.
All other members of the Senate were made co-authors of Cayetano’s resolution. -Hannah Torregoza