EVANGELENE Caminong captured the Philippines’ first gold medal in the 2018 Asean School Games being held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
The 17-year-old San Vicente, Palawan native cleared 1.74 meters to beat Thailand’s Prangthip Chitkhokkraud, who leaped 1.72 meters, for the high jump girls gold.
“Hindi po ako makapaniwala. Sobrang saya ko po,” said Caminong, who settled for a silver medal in the 2018 Palarong Pambansa in Ilocos Sur last summer.
“I hope this win serves an inspiration to my fellow Pinoy athletes to strive their best in their games,” said the National University standout.
Caminong will still be competing in the girls’ 100m hurdles on July 24.
In team sports, the Philippines beat Indonesia, 91-84, in the girls basketball competition. The Chiang Kai Shek College girls basketball team is carrying the Philippines in the competition.
Kent Jane Pastrana had 25 points for the Philippines, which opened its title retention bid with the victory.
The Philippines lost to Indonesia, 25-19, 25-16, 25-9, in girls volleyball.