(CNN Philippines) — With 10 more days of action in the 2016 Rio Olympics, the Philippines is down to five medal hopefuls.
Swimmer Jasmine Alkhaldi was the latest Filipino athlete to bow out of competition. She finished 33rd overall in the entire women’s 100m freestyle heat with an official time of 56.30.
“Overall it was okay. I’m happy with the results. I would have been happier if I swam faster but we got the time that we trained for,” said Alkhaldi.
“I did my best. We did everything that we can. I asked myself. ‘What more can I do to get faster?’ I feel we did everything,” said Alkhaldi.
She wished the remaining Filipino athletes the best as they try to achieve weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz’ feat and give the Philippines its best Olympic finish ever.
“Good luck and enjoy the moment. Enjoy being one of the very few Filipinos competing in the Olympics,” said Alkhaldi.
The fight for the Philippines continues as golfer Miguel Tabuena battles it out in golf on August 12 PHT; marathoner Mary Joy Tabal on August 15 PHT; long jumper Marestella Torres-Sunang and 400m hurdles bet Eric Cray on August 17 PHT; and taekwondo’s Kirstie Elaine Alora on August 21 PHT, the final day of the quadrennial event.
In 1932, high jumper Simeon Toribio, boxer Jose Villanueva, and swimmer Teofilo Yldefonso each won a bronze medal for the Philippines.
With Diaz’ silver, another medal of any color will surpass that 1932 performance.
“We don’t want to put pressure on our remaining bets but another medal of any color will give the Philippines its best ever finish in the Olympics,” Philippine Chef-de-mission Jose Romasanta said.
