Jinky Guion ruled out of Tokyo Paralympics due to COVID-19

Jinky Guion will not be in Tokyo for the Paralympics. Philippine Paralympic Committee (file photo)

By Ivan Saldajeno

MANILA--The Philippine Paralympic Committee confirmed on Tuesday that para powerlifter Jinky Guion will not be able to compete in the Tokyo Paralympics after testing positive for COVID-19.

Even her coach Tony Taguibao got a positive COVID-19 result as well.

"Jinky is deeply frustrated that she will not be able to compete in her powerlifting event for her country after training for so long and especially getting much inspiration from Hidilyn Diaz, a powerlifter like herself and the first Filipino to win an Olympic gold medal," PPC president Mike Barredo rued.

Barredo also revealed that Chef de Mission Kiko Diaz and para-athletics coach Joel Deriada were tested positive as well.

Barredo's statement essentially revealed the national team members who were first reported on Sunday to have contracted COVID-19.

He will now take over the spot Diaz had to vacate.

"The undersigned assumed the office of Chef de Mission to implement of tasks involving planning, logistics, communications, and the like for orderly navigation in the Paralympics," Barredo further said.

He then reiterated, "Despite this most unfortunate development, all our para-athletes remain in high spirits and committed to giving their best possible performances to bring honor and glory to our country."

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