Photo credit: EJ Obiena / Facebook

EJ Obiena, the Philippines’ top pole vaulter, has sent a message to his supporters following his recent withdrawal from the Asian Indoor Championships in Kazakhstan.

Obiena expressed his gratitude to his supporters for their generosity and willingness to donate to help pay his team's financial problems for the past year.

However, the athlete emphasized that as a national athlete, his expenses have already been approved for payment by the Philippine Sports Commission and funded from taxpayer revenues. He said that it would not be ethical for him to ask for private donations after being funded by the taxpayers.

Obiena also noted that a team of people is currently working on the matter and he has faith that it will be resolved soon. He added that it may feel improper to ask for donations at this time and encouraged his supporters to use their hard-earned money for themselves and their families.

He also urged everyone not to entertain individuals trying to raise money on his behalf on different platforms.