By Jerome S. Galunan, Jr.

The Philippines earned three silver and three bronze medals at Asian Junior Weightlifting Championship, which took place in Uzbekistan last month.

Elreen Ann Ando won two silver medals and a bronze in the women’s 63 kilogram division, winning silver in the clean and jerk, bronze in the snatch, resulting in an overall silver medal. Meanwhile, Ma. Dessa delos Santos won a silver and a bronze in the women’s 58 kilogram division, taking silver in the snatch and bronze in the clean and jerk.

In addition, Elien Rose Perez won bronze in the women’s 53 kilogram snatch event.

Samahang Weightlifting ng Pilipinas President Monico Puentevella said international competitions are crucial in elevating quality.

“This is how we raised Hidilyn Diaz,” he said. “All national sports associations should do this.”/JSG, WDJ