Ilonggo student-athletes made a resounding return in the 24th University Games (UNIGAMES) as they harvested medals in various games at the Iloilo Sports Complex (ISC) grounds.
Representing the University of Sto. Tomas (UST), Elvy Villagoniza captured three gold medals in the opening day. The Iloilo native and now Golden Tigresses first won her gold medal in the women’s long jump. The former star of Iloilo National High School (INHS) recorded 5.65 meters to defeat other teams in the competition.
“”Nag gold ako pero medyo mababa ang talon ko. Sa una medyo pressured ako kase sobrang baba yong talon ko, but nung Magic 8 na po binigay ko po lahat ng makakaya ko para lang masungkit yung gold medal,” Villagoniza added.
Aside from long jump, Villagoniza also ruled the women’s triple jump event before snatching another gold in the 4×200 meter relay with fellow Ilongga Pamela Marquillero, Berna Luz Talaron, and Negros Jessa Jarder.
Ilonggo Rogil Pablo of the College of St. Benilde Blazers also captured the gold medal in the men’s long jump event. He registered 6.96m leap to topple Rolly Olivares and Angelico Ramos from Rizal Technological University.IMT
