Here’s how EJ Obiena is elevating pole vaulting in PH

Photo from ernestobienapv/Instagram

“Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime.”

Filipino pole vaulting champion EJ Obiena is setting the stage for the future of the sport in the Philippines with the launch of a state-of-the-art pole vault facility in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte.

And in a recent Instagram post, the timeless proverb resonates to his vision of empowering young Filipino athletes to reach greater heights. 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ernest Obiena (@ernestobienapv)

This philosophy of teaching self-sufficiency, rather than offering temporary solutions, underpins the Olympian’s commitment to youth development in sports.

Through mentorship and hands-on training, he aims to equip the next generation of Filipino athletes with the skills needed to thrive not just in pole vaulting, but in any field they choose.

Obiena’s new pole vault facility, located at the newly constructed Marcos Stadium in Laoag, is the beginning of a larger movement aimed at placing the Philippines on the global map for pole vaulting. 

“This is my first attempt to teach our young athletes how to ‘fish’ for medals,” Obiena remarked, highlighting the importance of investing in youth and fostering an environment where they can excel.

His dream is to create a hub of excellence where Filipino pole vaulters can train with world-class resources and expertise, ultimately making the Philippines a force to be reckoned with in the international arena. 

“It highlights the value of empowerment through education and guidance, allowing individuals to become INDEPENDENT and capable of SUSTAINING THEMSELVES,” he further expounded. “This saying has become a universal metaphor for effective teaching and mentorship.”

Obiena believes that there is untapped greatness in every Filipino, and this facility is the first step in unleashing that potential. As the facility officially opens its doors, Obiena’s vision for Filipino athletes extends far beyond medals—he hopes to cultivate independence, discipline and the drive to succeed.

“I believe in investing in our youth. I believe in the greatness that resides in every Filipino in every corner of the Philippines. Let this be simply the beginning.”

As he ended his post, he teased, “Next one would be in the City of Tagum in Davao del Norte.”