EJ Obiena Resumes Training, Sets Sights on Future Competitions

MANILA – Ernest John “EJ” Obiena, fresh from a commendable fourth-place finish in men’s pole vault at the 2024 Paris Olympics, has returned to the Philippines and is already back in training, aiming to elevate the country’s presence on the global sports stage.

According to Philippines News Agency, the pole vaulter is motivated to continue competing internationally and is committed to bringing honor to the Philippines. “I am back in training, I am back in the game, and I am going to attack the rest of the season and make you proud,” Obiena stated, emphasizing his determination to see the Philippine flag raised in international arenas. He also announced his participation in the upcoming Philippine International Pole Vault Challenge scheduled for September 20 at Ayala Triangle Gardens in Makati City.

While there has been no confirmation on whether his Olympic competitors, including Swedish world No. 1 and Paris gold medalist Mondo Duplantis, will participate, Obiena’s presence alone is expected to draw significant attention.

Obiena expressed gratitude for the support he received from his fellow Filipinos, acknowledging their role in his journey. “First, I am filled with gratitude for the support of all of you and to be loved at times like this, by the country that raised me. I am indeed blessed!! Thank you!” he said in his post.

Additionally, Obiena is set to join other Filipino Olympians, including double gymnastics gold medalist Carlo Yulo and boxing bronze medalists Nesthy Petecio and Aira Villegas, in a welcome parade in Manila. The parade, which will move from Aliw Theater in Pasay City to the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex on Wednesday, will also see local government incentives awarded to Obiena, a resident of Tondo.

Reflecting on his Olympic performance and broader career, Obiena noted, “The measure of a man or woman is NOT a singular event — like the Olympics — but a cumulative or collective measure over time. I finished 4th in Paris, close but not good enough. I am not measured by this. I am measured by my career,” indicating his forward-looking mindset and resilience.