PH Consul General receives Olympic fencer Samantha Catantan, wishes her luck at Paris 2024

Consul General Senen T. Mangalile (left) warmly welcomes Ms. Samantha Kyle Catantan (right), the Philippine representative fencer for the 2024 Paris Olympics, at the Philippine Center in New York City on 17 May 2024.

On 17 May, Consul General Senen T. Mangalile proudly welcomed Samantha Kyle Catantan, a Filipina fencer representing the country at the 2024 Summer Olympics, to the Philippine Center in New York City.

Ms. Catantan recently qualified for the 2024 Summer Olympics during the Asia-Oceania Zonal Olympic Qualifier held at Fujairah, United Arab Emirates, in April 2024. She has made history as the first Filipino fencer to qualify for the Olympics in 32 years and the first woman in the country’s history.

During the courtesy call, Ms. Catantan shared her inspiring journey from humble beginnings in free fencing classes offered in her barangay in Quezon City to achieving Olympic status. She has been a Philippine National Fencing Team member since the age of 14, excelling as a foil fencer and demonstrating exceptional talent and dedication through local and international competitions.

Currently an athletic scholar at Pennsylvania State University, Ms. Catantan has excelled academically and athletically. She served as captain of the Penn State fencing team before stepping down to focus on her studies. A graduating accounting major, Ms. Catantan is determined to continue her education after graduation and has been accepted into Penn State’s Master of Accounting program.

Consul General Mangalile extended his heartfelt congratulations to Ms. Catantan, highlighting the immense pride her accomplishments bring to the Filipino community. The Consul General also wished her all the best in the upcoming Olympics and assured her that the Philippine Consulate would cheer for her.

Ms. Catantan is the 12th Filipino athlete to qualify for the 2024 Summer Olympics, set to take place from 26 July to 11 August in Paris, France. END