Resolution Congratulating and Commending Michael Christian Martinez for Being the First Filipino and Southeast Asian Figure Skater to Qualify for the Winner Olympics and for His Inspiring Performance in the 2014 Winter Olympics Held in Sochi, Russia

February 26, 2014

SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 034-14

RESOLUTION CONGRATULATING AND COMMENDING MICHAEL CHRISTIAN MARTINEZ FOR BEING THE FIRST FILIPINO AND SOUTHEAST ASIAN FIGURE SKATER TO QUALIFY FOR THE WINTER OLYMPICS AND FOR HIS INSPIRING PERFORMANCE IN THE 2014 WINTER OLYMPICS HELD IN SOCHI, RUSSIA

WHEREAS, Section 17 of Article II of the 1987 Philippine Constitution provides that, "the State shall give priority to education, science and technology, arts, culture, and sports to foster patriotism and nationalism, accelerate social progress, and promote total human liberation and development";

WHEREAS, the 2014 Winter Olympics, officially known as the XXII Olympic Winter Games, is a major international multi-sport event held in Sochi, Russia on February 7-23, 2014;

WHEREAS, 17-year old Michael Christian Martinez is the first Filipino and Southeast Asian figure skater to qualify for the Winter Olympics;

WHEREAS, his road to the Olympics was a rough one — being from a tropical country who discovered and developed his skill in figure ice skating at a shopping mall skating rink despite having to deal with his asthmatic condition;

WHEREAS, Michael Christian Martinez has proved to the world that with perseverance, determination and hardwork, it is possible to attain and fulfill one's goals; AEaSTC

WHEREAS, Michael Christian Martinez' performance earned compliments from commentators of the 2014 Winter Olympics who exclaimed, "Such a great performance from such a young man!", ''What a debut for the Philippines!", "That was fantastic!";

WHEREAS, Michael Christian Martinez' inspiring achievement has brought pride, recognition and honor to the country and to the Filipino people;

WHEREAS, Michael Christian Martinez rightfully deserves commendation from the Philippine Senate for remarkably showing to the world the exceptional talent of Filipinos: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate, as it is hereby resolved, To commend and congratulate Michael Christian Martinez for being the first Filipino and Southeast Asian figure skater to qualify for the Winter Olympics and for his inspiring performance in the 2014 Winter Olympics held in Sochi, Russia, thereby bringing pride, joy and honor to the Filipino people.

Adopted,

(SGD.) FRANKLIN M. DRILONPresident of the Senate

This Resolution was adopted by the Senate on February 26, 2014.

(SGD.) OSCAR G. YABESSecretary of the Senate