Three gymnasts representing the Philippines in the women’s gymnastics of the 2024 Paris Olympics were surprised after being informed about the Heroes’ Welcome held in Malacanang on August 13, 2024.
It can be recalled that the Heroes’ Welcome was held to honor the athletes who represented the Philippines in the Olympics. Still, some eagle-eyed netizens noticed that three athletes were not seen during the event.
The said athletes, Aleah Finnegan, Emma Malabuyo, and Levi Ruivivar, who formerly represented the USA but chose to compete under the Philippine flag, confirmed that they were not informed about the ceremony.
“We were not informed of the event,” said Aleah.
“I wanted to go but they didn’t tell me about it,” Emma stated
In the Heroes’ Welcome, Malacanang granted cash incentives to all athletes, even those without medals.
It’s not known if the three would also receive P1-M, the incentive granted to non-medal athletes.
As of writing, Malacanang has yet to give their comment on the issue.