First Gentleman injured in surfing, skips Asiad visit

First Gentleman Jose Miguel Arroyo won’t be able to join the Filipino athletes participating in the Asian Games in Busan, South Korea as originally planned.

Malacanang told The STAR the First Gentleman was hospitalized and was diagnosed Monday at St. Luke’s Medical Center as suffering from a case of "hairline" fracture of the ribs which he suffered while he was surfing last Sept. 25 in Siargao, Surigao.

On doctors’ advice, the First Gentleman, who was earlier asked by the President to represent her in Busan, will have to take a rest in the hospital at least until today after completing a medical examination.

Asked by The STAR yesterday if he would still make it to Busan, the First Gentleman said : "No more, I am sick, have fracture."

Mr. Arroyo was supposed to fly to Busan this week and stay there for at least three days to cheer and provide morale boost to the Filipino athletes.

Athletes left to carry on with the fight in the Asian Games here are still eagerly awaiting the arrival of the First Gentleman.

"We’ve invited him but there was a sudden change in his schedule. His presence here can be a big inspiration to our athletes...those who are competing right now and those who have yet to compete," said PSC chairman Eric Buhain.

The PSC chairman made a surprise visit at the main press center Tuesday morning along with Philippine Olympic Committee president Celso Dayrit and RP delegation officials Tom Carrasco, Julian Camacho, Freddie Jalasco, Ike Buan and Tats Suzara.

"Even the government of South Korea is anticipating the arrival of the First Gentleman. I think they’re friends with some government officials here and in fact, some of them said they would shoulder everything if he comes in — like the hotel (billeting) and others," Buhain added.

"Sayang. The First Gentleman should have witnessed our gold medal feats in bowling and billiards. But we feel that there’s a couple more coming," Buhain added.

Buhain said he’s been reporting to the Palace on a daily basis, providing them with the information on the performance of the Filipino athletes.

"Since Day One, I’ve been reporting to the President and she’s highly interested with what’s happening right now... the winnings na nangyayari. I’ve been giving them information not only about our medal winners here but also those who tried their best," said Buhain.

He said he will try to find out if the President could provide additional cash incentives for the winners.

As it is, a good medal here is worth P1.5 million, silver P750,000 and bronze P150,000.

A little more won’t do any harm, of course.