The sad reality is that a supermajority of Filipino politicians are wildly unhealthy and out of shape, with very few—such as Congressman Kiko Barzaga and Congresswoman Richelle Singson, Senators Chiz Escudero and Robin Padilla, and former Senators Manny Pacquiao and Freddie Webb—making it a point to take care of themselves through proper nutrition and regular exercise.
Over the weekend, Vice Governor Kiko Dy of Echague City in Isabela Province achieved a remarkable feat, finishing third in his category at the ruthlessly competitive Hyrox Osaka race.
Hyrox competitions are designed to test full-spectrum fitness. Athletes complete a standardized course that combines long-distance running with repeated functional workouts such as sled pushes and pulls, lunges, carries, and high-repetition wall balls. Each segment must be completed to strict competition standards before progressing, leaving little room for error. The format demands endurance, strength, pacing discipline, and sustained mental focus across every stage of the race.
The Osaka leg is widely regarded as one of the toughest stops in Asia. It regularly draws deep international fields, including seasoned competitors from Japan, Europe, and Oceania, creating tight margins and aggressive pacing from start to finish. Podium placements in Osaka are considered strong markers of international competitiveness due to the depth and quality of the field.
Dy completed the race with his family present at the venue, offering on-site support throughout race day. Their presence was visible during pre-race preparations and post-finish recovery, underscoring the importance of support systems in endurance competitions, where physical and mental fatigue accumulates over time.
His result places him among a small group of Philippine public officials who have not only competed internationally in a demanding fitness event, but also secured a podium finish under elite conditions.
