Visually impaired student secures three gold medals in Cebu regional athletic meet

Despite his visual challenges, this student made it big at the Cebu regional athletics winning three gold medals.

Toledo City Public Information Office reported that Tonny Cabaluna, a 19-year-old athlete, secured the gold medals in the Central Visayas Regional Athletic Association (CVIRAA) Meet 2024.  

Cabaluna, who resides in Barangay Larap in Toledo City, landed his first gold win in the athletics running long jump category with a record of 2 meters and 33 cm. The following day, the gold medalist secured back-to-back first-place wins by dominating the Shot Put event, which exceeded the expectations of his coaches and trainers.

In a report shared by DepEd, his coach Edgar Senarlo Jr. stated that the eighth grader has never let his disability define him.

“Despite facing numerous hurdles, particularly in accessing education, he remains steadfast in his pursuit of excellence. His passion for athletics has been a driving force in his life, where he astounds others with his prowess in running, jumping, and throwing.”

Cabaluna's determination to take home victory medals did not end there. On May 8, he won his third gold medal for the 100-meter dash.

Senarlo expressed that with these wins, Cabaluna has become a symbol of hope and inspiration to many people, especially his fellow athletes. “Tonny’s achievements underscore the limitless potential that lies within individuals, regardless of their circumstances,” his coach added.

Cabaluna meanwhile jokingly shared his technique. “Akong gi-imagine sir nga nag-itsa ko’g granada sa kontra, Sir. Ako jud ilayo og labay kay maapil pa lang ko (I imagined that I was throwing a grenade to the enemies, Sir. I have to throw it far as I am afraid that it might also hit me).”

Toledo City has secured five gold medals in the CVIAA. Cabaluna contributed three gold medals, while the remaining were achieved by other athletes.