Polio victim in Mandaue wins tournament MVP

A POLIO victim was the most valuable player in a tournament among persons with disabilities (PWDs) at the Mandaue City Sports Complex.

“I am very happy. I did not really expect it since for me it was only for fun,” said Gabriel Ouano, 26, married to a former factory worker and blessed with one child.

Ouano said his disability did not hamper him from doing what a normal person does.

Ouano, a mixer of a Mandaue-based furniture firm said the tournament made them enjoy life, and enhanced their skills.

The half-day tournament was organized by the Mandaue City Federation for the Welfare of PWDs as part of the fiesta celebration of the feast of St. Joseph, the city’s patron saint.

The Mandaue City government spent for the uniforms of three competing teams — Kaabag Fighters, Cabancalan Cobra and PWD federation.

Ouano’s team, Kaabag Fighters won the tournament and received a P2,000 cash prize.

Second placer Cabancakalan Cobras got P1,500 cash prize and third place finisher PWD Federation brought home P1,000.

Ouano received a trophy and a cash prize of P500 for scoring 26, the highest points.

On the other hand, Danny Apa, another polio victim was also awarded as the highest scorer with 13 points in the elimination rounds. He received a cash prize of P500.

Michael Pielago, president of the federation of PWDs said everyone enjoyed the games and helped boost up their confidence.

Tournament director Joseph Gumantoc said 30 players participated in the activity.