Levi Jung Ruivivar, Emma Malabuyo, and Aleah Finnegan, the three Filipina gymnasts who represented the Philippines at the Paris Olympics 2024, have expressed disappointment after being uninvited to the country's homecoming parade.
In a recent statement on social media, Ruivivar addressed her absence from the Heroes' Welcome Parade on August 14, stating, "I was really hurt considering this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity I missed out on." She claimed to have never been informed of the event or invited to attend.
Ruivivar shared a screenshot of her conversation with Gymnastics Association of the Philippines (GAP) President Cynthia Carrion, who indicated that the event was exclusively for medalists. Ruivivar responded by inquiring if this was indeed the case, as she had heard that all Olympians were invited. However, she never received a response or further information.
To Ruivivar's surprise, she saw other Filipino Olympians participating in the courtesy call with President Bongbong Marcos and the parade. She expressed her disappointment at missing the opportunity to celebrate with her fellow Olympians and share in the excitement of the Philippines' Olympic success.
Despite the setback, Ruivivar expressed her gratitude for the support, love, and Pinoy pride she received following the Paris Olympics. She remains committed to representing the Philippines in future competitions and inspiring the next generation of Filipina gymnasts.
Finnegan and Malabuyo also revealed that they were unaware of the welcoming ceremony and would have loved to attend if invited. Presidential Communications Office Assistant Secretary Dale De Vera clarified that all athletes were invited to the event, although the invitations were channeled through the Philippine Olympic Committee and the Philippine Sports Commission rather than directly to the athletes.
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