MANILA – Ernest John Obiena not only delivered gold at the rain-drenched Atletang Ayala World Pole Vault Challenge in Makati City on Sunday, he also underscored his mission beyond medals: preparing the next wave of Filipino champions.
The two-time Olympian cleared 5.80 meters to equal his season-best, beating France’s Thibaut Collet on countback after both logged the same height. It marked Obiena’s first international crown on home soil.
The Philippine and Asian record holder tried twice at 5.85m and once at 5.90m but failed to clear, while Collet — fifth at the recent World Athletics Championships — also missed all three attempts at 5.90m. Poland’s Piotr Lisek settled for bronze with 5.60m.
Despite the triumph, the world No. 7 chose to highlight the promise of 19-year-old Hokett Delos Santos, who qualified from local eliminations but bowed out after failing to clear his opening height.
“I won’t be here forever. That’s why we put Hokett on stage today nerves and all so he can gain experience competing with the best,” Obiena said.
Obiena stressed that his goals now extend to mentoring prospects such as Delos Santos and Elijah Cole, ensuring the Philippines sustains its pole vault success.
“If Hokett or Elijah can win it, why should I take that slot? I believe in them,” he explained. “I want the next generation to step up so the Philippines will always have world-class pole vaulters.”
As he looks ahead to the indoor season and another Southeast Asian Games campaign, Obiena is determined not only to collect victories but also to build a legacy that outlives his own career./PN
