University of Baguio boxing pride Irish Magno is facing a tough challenge even before she sets foot in Japan for the 2020 Summer Olympics in July – lack of financial support for her family.
The 29-year-old took to social media recently to pour out her emotion on the two months delay in the release of allowances of boxers, who will represent the country in the Japan Olympics set on July 23 to Aug. 8.
From her post, fans realized that Magno is the breadwinner of her family who are based in Iloilo.
“Ang hirap mag-focus para sa paghahanda ko sa Olympics kung alam mo ‘yung pamilya mo sa probinsya halos walang makain. Masakit lang isipin lalo’t ikaw lang inaasahan nila,” Magno said.
Magno has since taken down the post for personal reasons, but she thanked those who sent her inspiring messages, including the Amateur Boxing of the Philippines for helping national boxers during the pandemic.
Recently, Magno also posted on social media that she received a check from the city government of Baguio, as her cash incentive for winning medals in international games.
Magno along with fellow UB boxers Nesthy Petecio and Carlo Paalam just completed their training for the 2020 Olympics at the Inspire Sports Academy in Calamba, Laguna.
Petecio and Paalam also received their cash incentives from the city government recently.
Magno and Eumir Marcial are the only two members of the national boxing team who secured Olympic slots by winning in previous qualifying tournaments.
The other members of the national boxing team are hoping to qualify in the limited Olympic slots. – Harley F. Palangchao
April 26, 2024
