In the world of sports, we often hear stories of athletes striving to achieve greatness. But what if the challenge isn’t just about competing against others, but also overcoming one’s own physical limitations?
Like a vast ocean, the journey of para-athletes is filled with challenges—depths of doubt, waves of adversity—but beyond these struggles lies the shore of triumph. One young swimmer who has bravely navigated these tides is 12-year-old A-Jay Arabaca from Lagonoy, Camarines Sur. Despite being orthopedically handicapped, he made a remarkable debut at the Paragames, bringing home three gold medals.
From Riverbanks to Palarong Bicol
A-Jay first learned to swim at the age of seven in a river near their home.
“Hindi ko po inaasahan na makakalangoy siya sa ganitong mga event,” said his mother, Maricris Arabaca.
Translation: I never expected him to compete in events like this.
She expressed that while many people celebrate A-Jay’s victories, no one is prouder than his own family.
A-Jay’s journey to success was not a solo endeavor. His triumphs were made possible by the unwavering support of those who believed in him, including his coach, Mark Allen Sarmen, a former school head at A-Jay’s institution.
“Noong first time ko pong na meet si ajay, na-amaze ako,” Coach Mark recalled. “Dawa po arog kaiyan ang kalagayan niya, makaskason po siya maghiro, dae po naging hadlang ang saiyang sitwasyon para makapag move siya and makapagkawat sa ibang aki.”
Trans: The first time I met A-Jay, I was amazed. Despite his condition, he moved so fast. His situation never became a hindrance for him to play alongside other children.)
Coaching a para-swimmer for the first time, Coach Mark faced many challenges in training A-Jay. “Masakit po talaga mag-training sa Paragames, lalo na sa para-swimming, kasi sa case po ni A-Jay, bilang orthopedic patient, medyo delikado po baga ang swimming, mas lalo na po sa kalagayan niya,” he explained. “With the help from several trainers from SDO CamSur, sila sir nelson sila sir william, yung iba pa pong matitibay na trainers. Sila po yung nag-aadvice and then naghe-help sakuya na ma-train ng maayos si A-jay.”
Trans: Paragames training is extremely tough, especially in swimming, where safety is a major concern given his condition.With the help of several trainers from SDO CamSur—Sir Nelson, Sir William, and other experienced trainers—they provided advice and helped me train A-Jay properly.
Overcoming Fear, Embracing the Fight
One of A-Jay’s biggest challenges wasn’t just the physical demands of competition but also his own fears.
“Kang primero po, mas nangingibabaw saiya ang fear,” said Coach Mark. “Dae din talaga siya sanay na magharap sa crowd, yan ang kaniya pinaka-weakness niya po.”
Trans: At first, fear held him back. He wasn’t comfortable facing a crowd, that was his greatest weakness.
Through continuous training, A-Jay overcame his anxieties and stepped into the competition with newfound confidence.
He proved this at 2025 Palarong Bicol, where he didn’t just win one, but three gold medals in the 50-meter backstroke, 50-meter freestyle, and 50-meter breaststroke in the Elementary Boys’ Division, Para Games Category. On top of that, he even surpassed his own records in freestyle and backstroke.
“Maogmahon po” A-Jay shared. “Yung nakagana po ako kahit kinabahan po ako nang sobra.”
Trans: I felt so happy when I won, even though I was really nervous.
Behind every one of A-Jay’s victories is the unwavering support of his family, school, and community.
“Minsan nga sinasabi niyan sako na mas maray pa daa po ang lamesa o kaya tukawan ta kumpleto daa po ang bitis,” shared his mother, Maricris. “Pero sabi ko kako dae man yan, tinao yan saimo ni Lord, tinao ka samo ni Lord ta kaya mo.”
Trans: There were times when he told me he wished he were like a table or a chair because they had complete legs. But I always remind him, ‘God gave you this, and you can do this.
Superintendent Norma B. Samantela also expressed admiration for A-Jay’s perseverance. “Syempre, proud na proud kami na nanalo siya at yung iba pa niyang kasamahan, ito’y mensahe rin sa lahat na ang kapansanan ay hindi naman sagabal para maging matagumpay ang isang tao, bawat tao, may kapansanan man o wala ay may kanya-kanyang kakayahan yan.”
Trans: Of course, we are very proud that he won, along with his teammates. This is also a message to everyone that disability is not a hindrance to success. Every person, whether with or without a disability, has their own unique abilities.
For A-Jay, disabilities should never define one’s dreams. “Go lang nang go,” (Just keep going) he said. “Magpursige lang” (Just work hard) More than that, he has overcome the belief that he is incomplete. For a child who once thought a table was more whole than himself, he has now proven that physical limitations do not define one’s potential.
Now, he continues to train for the Palarong Pambansa. As his coach helps him refine his skills, one thing remains certain—A-Jay, who once doubted himself, has become an inspiration to many.
More than any medal, A-Jay has learned that no matter where life’s currents take you, success isn’t measured by the speed or distance you swim, but by the courage to keep moving forward. With every dive into the water, he continues to carve his own path—one that leads him to rise above the waves and claim victory.I Kyla Literal, Froilance Alcazar
