Philippine para swimmers Ernie Gawilan and Angel Otom have successfully secured slots for the 2024 Paris Paralympics, announced by the Philippine Sports Commission.

Both athletes achieved their qualifications through the Minimum Qualifying Standard. Gawilan earned his slot by ranking in the top six in the 400m freestyle and top eight in the 200m individual medley at the world championships. Similarly, Otom secured her place by placing in the top six in the 400m freestyle and top eight in the 200m individual medley at the world championships.

Gawilan, a seasoned Paralympian, boasts previous appearances in the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio and the 2020 Paralympics in Tokyo. His illustrious career includes gold medal triumphs in the 2018 and 2022 editions of the Asian Para Games, as well as multiple gold medals in the ASEAN Para Games in 2014, 2015, 2017, and 2022.

Meanwhile, Otom’s rising talent was showcased in the 2023 ASEAN Para Games in Cambodia, where she clinched an impressive four gold medals.