One hour apart, two Philippine Airlines chartered planes flew the delegtion to Vientiane, capital of first-time host People?s Democratic Republic of Lao.
Good news and bad news marked the Nationals? departure.
The good news is that the RP men?s and women?s beach volleyball squads made it to the trip after the Philippine Volleyball Federation succeeded in generating the needed funds to join their teammtes to Laos.
The bad news is Olympian Heidlyn Diaz was diagnosed to be afflicted with chicken pox, or ?bulutong tubig.? Weightlifting association secretary-general Roger Dullano made the official announcement to the POC early Saturday and delisted the athlete from the roster.
?It?s very unfortunate because she is the top favorite in the 50-kilogram event,? said Dullano who added that the challenge just got bigger for the four remaining team members.
Philippine Volleyball Federation Secretary-General Rustico ?Otie? Camangian confirmed that the country?s beach volleyball teams will be supported financially by the federation.
The men?s beach team is composed of Jonrey Sasing and Rhovyl Verayo, while Michelle Carolino and Johanna Carpio made up the distaff side. Long-time national mentor Dante Lopez, will handle both teams.
The Philippines is entered in only 22 of the 25 sports to be disputed in the Games that will be ofrficially opened tomorrow in what is expected simple but meanaingful inaugural rites.
?Our athletes have always shown their best even in adversities and this Games is another challenge for them despite the confusing situation engulfing Philippine sporrts,? Elizalde said.
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