WINNER PARAPLEGIC. Davao City’s pride swimmer Ernie Gawilan [second from right] is flanked by [L-R] DSWD Regional Director Priscilla N. Razon, DSWD Focal on Disability Affairs Cynthia Umbaňa, and  Philippine Sports Association for Differently Abled President James Infiesto. Gawilan won three medals in the recent Asian PARA Games held in Incheon Korea.

The 23 year old Matigsalug swimmer was born without his legs and his left hand but this never hampered him from excelling in swimming.

Director Razon expressed best wishes for Gawilan’s future competitions. “He is an inspiration for all persons with disability (PWD). We hope that we can discover and develop more athletes who will rise beyond their physical challenges. Ernie has achieved this extraordinary feat because of his persistence and courage. Kaya natin ang pagbabago.” DSWD