MARAWI CITY (PIA) — Bangsamoro Master Smasher Jamal Rahmat “JR” Pandi of Poona Bayabao, Lanao del Sur, has reaffirmed his dominance in badminton by securing the gold medal in the Secondary Boys category at the Palarong Pambansa 2024.
Pandi, 16, a student at Ragayan National High School and a proud Maranao, defeated Lovic Javier of Western Visayas on July 15 at the Metro Sports Center in Cebu.
After winning a silver medal at the 13th ASEAN School Games last June, Pandi faced high expectations.
“I was under a little bit of pressure because I was overthinking outside the court, and of course, my opponent was also with me in the tournament outside, so the pressure was there that I couldn’t lose,” he said.
Despite the challenges, Pandi is committed to his sport and aims to win gold at the international level.
“I hope to become a champion in the international [tournament]. Because my highest is still silver, I want to get gold again for the Philippines,” he said.
Last playing year as a Junior, he is eligible in the next 2025 Games in Brunei Darussalam when he will be in Grade 12.
“We are looking forward towards that opportunity to elevate our success,” coach Maylin Canillo said.
This win is significant for BARMM, marking their second gold medal at the Palarong Pambansa 2024. Joeharry Bones clinched gold in the Taekwondo Secondary Boys Category 5.
The Bangsamoro region bagged 18 medals, with six gold, five silver, and seven bronze. The next Palarong Pambansa will be held in Ilocos Norte. (BIO with reports from DepEd Philippines/PIA Lanao del Sur)
