POC President Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino sends his best wishes to Maxine Esteban, who is traveling to the Olympics to represent Ivory Coast. Tolentino is proud that Esteban isn’t competing for Team Philippines.
On Tuesday, March 19, Tolentino said, “We at the POC are thrilled that Maxine, our athlete, has earned a spot in the Paris Olympics.” “While she won’t be donning our national colors, we are delighted for her.”
He said, “Maxine, strive for the gold with all your might.“
Esteban, 23, who changed federations a year ago, won Africa’s lone Olympic qualifying spot in women’s foil singles on Sunday morning in Washington, DC.
Esteban expressed her appreciation to Tolentino for making it easier for her to join the national Olympic committee of Ivory Coast.
“I extend my thanks to my parents, family, and everyone who supported me, especially POC President Abraham Tolentino, who lent a helping hand when I needed it,” Esteban said.
Tolentino thinks Esteban’s Filipino soul still endures, despite the fact that watching her compete for another nation makes him feel something.
“We encourage Maxine to pursue her Olympic aspirations, and now she’s living that dream,” said Tolentino.
The Philippines has already qualified six athletes for the Paris Games, which run from July 26 to August 11. These athletes include both first-time qualifiers and returnees in a variety of disciplines.
