Against the Odds: Samar Teen Swimmer Wins 3 Golds, Advances to Palarong Pambansa

• Despite physical challenges, 15-year-old Kyle Advincula from Samar won three Paralympic swimming golds at EVRAA Meet 2026, securing a Palarong Pambansa return.

The Vanguard 2 months ago 2.5 K

Posted on Mar. 11, 2026 at 8:11 am

BAYBAY CITY, Leyte — Despite physical challenges and starting competitive swimming late, 15-year-old Kyle Advincula from Calbiga, Samar emerged as one of the most inspiring athletes at the Eastern Visayas Regional Athletic Association (EVRAA) Meet 2026 by winning three gold medals in the Paralympic swimming events.

The Grade 9 student from Barangay Pasigay excelled in the freestyle, backstroke, and breaststroke categories, securing a sweep of gold medals and earning another opportunity to compete in the Palarong Pambansa.

Advincula competes in the Paralympic category due to a foot disability he has had since birth, which resembles a crab’s foot. However, this condition has not hindered his passion for swimming.

Despite only starting his competitive swimming career last year, Advincula quickly progressed and qualified to represent Eastern Visayas in the Palarong Pambansa, where he won one silver and two bronze medals.

He dedicated his victories to his parents for their support and encouragement, as well as to his coaches for their guidance in his training and development.

Advincula shared a message of encouragement to fellow athletes facing similar challenges, urging them to focus on their goals and not be deterred by others’ opinions about their disabilities.

“Strive and don’t listen to what other people say about having a disability. Focus on what truly matters, and that is achieving your goals,” Advincula said.

Meanwhile, Roivy G. Cabrillas of the Calbayog Supersonics showcased a strong performance in taekwondo, clinching the gold medal in Kyorugi Bantam Division after a thrilling match against a competitor from Baybay City.

Cabrillas demonstrated composure and skill in a tight final round, securing a 9-8 victory and adding the third gold medal to the Calbayog Supersonics’ taekwondo campaign in the regional meet.

The inspiring performances of Advincula and Cabrillas underscored the determination and talent of young athletes from Samar competing in EVRAA 2026. — Nicole Cabacang, NWSSU, DEVCom Intern

Photo by: Nicole Cabacang, NWSSU, DEVCom Intern/The Vanguard)