MANILA — Olympic silver medalist Mansueto “Onyok” Velasco capped his remarkable boxing career with another prestigious milestone after headlining the Philippine Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2026 during the 5th Enshrinement Ceremony at the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) House over the weekend.
The 1996 Atlanta Olympics boxing silver medalist from Bago City, Negros Occidental was among seven of the country’s most accomplished sports figures inducted into the Hall of Fame in recognition of their lasting contributions to Philippine sports and their role in inspiring generations of Filipino athletes.
Joining Velasco in this year. distinguished class were basketball great Ramon Fernandez, Paralympic bronze medalist Adeline Dumapong-Ancheta, former tennis standout Cecil Mamiit, athletics stalwart Isidro Del Prado, and multi-sport athlete Bea Lucero-Lhuillier. The late Eduardo Pacheco, who represented the Philippines in both basketball and football, was also honored posthumously.
The ceremony was led by PSC Chairman Patrick Gregorio, who paid tribute to the honorees for bringing pride to the country through excellence and dedication in their respective sports.
“We can never thank you enough. Tonight, we offer our gratitude. Tomorrow, and every day after, we will strive to honor your legacy not only with words, but through the work of building a stronger future for Philippine sport,” Gregorio said.
Established in 1999, the Philippine Sports Hall of Fame recognizes athletes, coaches, and sports personalities who have brought honor and distinction to the Philippines through exceptional achievements in competition.
The enshrinement ceremony was moved from its original schedule to allow all living inductees to attend. Mamiit flew in from the United States to personally receive the honor. A former Davis Cup campaigner, he captured six Southeast Asian Games gold medals and two Asian Games bronze medals during his illustrious career.
Each inductee received a commemorative trophy crafted by renowned Filipino artist Leandro Baldemor along with a P500,000 cash incentive. Pacheco’s family accepted the recognition on behalf of the late multi-sport athlete.
Gregorio closed the ceremony by expressing gratitude to the inductees for their sacrifices while carrying the Philippine flag in international competitions.
“We are very proud of you, honorees. Salamat sa inyo. Salamat sa paglaban. Salamat sa hindi pagsuko. Salamat sa puso at alab,” he said. “Just like the flag that you have worn so proudly — kayo ang maningning na mga bituin at araw ng bayang Pilipinas — kailan pa man ay di magdidilim.”/PN
