The Philippine Navy on Friday (Aug. 20) welcomed Tokyo Olympics silver medalist Carlo Paalam and Olympian Irish Magno to its roster of enlisted personnel.
MANILA, Philippines—The Philippine Navy on Friday (Aug. 20) welcomed Tokyo Olympics silver medalist Carlo Paalam and Olympian Irish Magno to its roster of enlisted personnel.
The two Olympians were given their ranks and took their oaths in a courtesy call at the Navy headquarters, said Navy spokesperson Cdr. Benjo Negrenza.
Navy vice commander Maj. Gen. Nestor Herico administered the oaths and led the awarding of plaques. Paalam and Magno, whose applications for special enlistment were approved recently by Navy chief Vice Adm. Adeluis Bordado, both have ranks of apprentice seaman (ASN).
Herico thanked the two Olympians on behalf of the Navy for “giving a glimmer of hope to everyone. In the all-too-familiar sullen mood because of the pandemic, you inspired the Filipino nation and gave us the hope that all of us direly need.”
Boxer Paalam was runner-up in the men’s flyweight division final in the Tokyo Games. Magno competed at the women’s flyweight division.
“The Philippine Navy is honored and glad that you have chosen to serve and belong with us. We wholeheartedly welcome you as special enlisted personnel of the Philippine Navy,” Herico said partly in Filipino.