More than a medal: The heart, struggles, and dreams of EJ Obiena

Pole vaulter Ernest John "EJ" Obiena, one of the Philippines’ premier track-and-field athletes, has consistently brought pride to the country on the international stage.

In an exclusive interview with Emma Tiglao for Paraluman News, Obiena traced his athletic journey back to age six, when he first began training under the guidance of his father, Emerson Obiena—a former national athlete and Southeast Asian Games medalist. WATCH: Paraluman News YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4H4pxloZSsY

Obiena initially competed in hurdles before transitioning to pole vaulting, a pivot made to secure better opportunities for a college athletic scholarship. Throughout his rise, he has held onto a core lesson from his father: "Everything that's great in life requires sacrifice."

Away from the runway, Obiena reveals a lighter, more personal side. An avid motorsport enthusiast, he enjoys driving, sports cars, and attending automotive events. He also plays tennis in his downtime and even had the chance to hit the court with fellow Filipino sports star Alex Eala in Nagoya, Japan.

"I love tennis," Obiena joked. "Tennis doesn't love me back."

Behind his podium finishes, however, lies a grueling routine and quiet battles. Training nine times a week, Obiena opened up about enduring severe exhaustion, mental fatigue, and a debilitating back injury during the 2024 Olympic cycle.

While he admitted there were moments he considered walking away from the sport, he chose to push through. "If it still makes sense for you, go power through this slump, per se, and keep going forward," he shared.

For Obiena, competing under the Philippine flag goes far beyond collecting hardware—it is about proving that Filipinos belong at the top of global athletics.

"That means something—that we're capable of being the best in the world," he emphasized, expressing deep gratitude to the supporters who have stood by him through every peak and valley of his career.

Looking five years ahead, Obiena hopes to stay healthy, happy, and eventually drape an Olympic medal around his neck. In the immediate future, as he gears up for the 2027 indoor season, his sights are set on consistently clearing the six-meter mark.

Asked what advice he would give his younger self, Obiena offered a simple message: "Just hold on and get ready for a ride of a lifetime. Your hobby will bring you to places you never thought [it would]."

Through his candid conversation with Tiglao, Obiena’s journey serves as a reminder that true championship pedigree isn't just measured in height or medals—it is built on sacrifice, resilience, and heart. -RA Sibag/Paraluman News/VVP