The Timor-Leste delegation genuinely appreciated the kind gesture of Filipinos who cheered for them to win medals in the 30th Southeast Asian Games.
“We are very happy with support of the Filipino people, cheering for us to win medals,” Timor-Leste coach Alexandrino Acosta told Edge Davao on Thursday.
Aside from the cheers that made so much noise in social media, Timor-Leste’s delegation is also grateful for the hospitality of the host country.
“I think the hospitality is amazing. From the security guards, the cafeteria personnel, everyone has been so nice and they treat us special,” another contingent said.
Majority of their delegation is housed in the Philsport Arena in Pasig City. This writer interviewed people around their billeting area and they find the people from Timor-Leste humble and respectful.
The act of sympathy began when cheers and words of encouragement for Timor-Leste flooded social media after netizens took notice of their poor start in the competition.
While the Philippines pulled away early in the first day behind the spectacular performances of the country’s triathletes, eskrimadors, wushu athletes and dancesport bets, Timor-Leste was at the cellar with an empty basket.
But instead of jeers, the Filipinos, who are known globally for their hospitality, sent their cheers for the struggling Timor athletes.
Several netizens wrote in their Facebook accounts, “Go Fight Timor-Leste!” while highlighting the Asian country’s flag in the photo posted.
Among the posts that went viral and earned thousand reactions and shares, was from Asian Basketball Facebook page.
It wrote, “Go fight Timor-Leste, we want you to go home with a smile and something to celebrate. Get that gold or silver or bronze.”
The kind gesture the Filipinos showcased compliments this year’s theme of the biennial event #WeWinAsOne.
As of this writing, the country remains medal-less based on 2019 Sea Games media portal.
Meanwhile, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Commissioner Charles Raymond Maxey is one with the Filipino nation in encouraging the humble contingents of the country Timor-Leste.
“I am happy with the Filipino people to cheer for Timor-Leste to win a medal. I, too, is cheering for Timor-Leste delegation,” the Dabawenyo commissioner said.
He added: “This (competition) isn’t just about winning medals but winning friendships.”
