4As the Philippines continues to produce talented athletes who excel in various international competitions, it has become evident that their achievements are often overlooked and underappreciated until they gain recognition globally.
This phenomenon is not only disheartening but also unfair to the athletes who dedicate their lives to their craft.
Take, for instance, the countless Filipino athletes who have made a name for themselves in international competitions, such as Hidilyn Diaz, the country's first Olympic gold medalist, and EJ Obiena, the world's top-ranked pole vaulter.
Despite their impressive feats, they are often met with indifference and lack of recognition from the government and the public until they win international accolades.
This phenomenon is not limited to individual athletes; it also affects entire sports teams and disciplines.
The Philippine women's national football team, for instance, has consistently performed well in international competitions, yet they remain unknown to most Filipinos until they win a major tournament.
The lack of recognition and appreciation for Filipino athletes is not only a disservice to them but also hinders the development of sports in the country.
When athletes are not recognized or valued, they are less likely to continue pursuing their passion, leading to a decline in the overall quality of our sports teams.
It is time for the Philippine government, media, and public to recognize the achievements of our athletes and appreciate their hard work and dedication.
By doing so, we can inspire more young athletes to pursue their dreams and create a culture of excellence in sports.
Let us celebrate our athletes' achievements, regardless of whether they are recognized internationally or not.
They are our national heroes, and it is our duty to recognize and appreciate their contributions to our country's sporting landscape.
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