The Philippines team were surprised when their Ambassador to Korea, Her Excellency, Maria Theresa B Dizen de Vega, dropped by at their lunch area at the LNG Sports Town Stadium in Incheon.
The ambassador arrived unannounced alone that even the host did not have any protocol lined up for her and was in fact was stopped at the entrance because she did have an accreditation card.
But when several personnel from the organising committee realised who she was, they apoligised profusely and Softball Asia president and secretary-general of the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC), Datuk Low Beng Choo rushed to meet here and take to meet the Philippines team who were having their lunch after their match against Singapore which they won 8-1.
Even the Philippines team themselves were surprised when Her Excellency Maria walked into the dining area, as they quickly got up to greet her, as Amateur Softball Association of Philippines secretary-general, Francessca Altomonte, introduced head coach Venerando Dizer and his coaching staff and team officials.
HE Maria, then met the players and gave them some words of encouragement before Datuk Low, joined her for a group photograph with the team.
“It was great for HE Maria to come here from Seoul which would taken her about an hour and half and with no aide or officials accompanying her but just the driver,” said Datuk Low.
Coach Dizer said it was a pleasant surprise and a tremendous motivation before their tough game against China in the last game of the day.
Philippines remaining games are against India tomorrow and Japan on Thursday to complete their round robin fixture.
They have so far only lost to Chinese Taipei 0-5 yesterday and won against Hong Kong (7-0) Korea (2-0), Thailand (10-0) and Singapore (8-1).
“We are indeed honoured by her presence and players are indeed motivated to give my best shot against China.”
Philippines who are eyeing to make the last four to book a berth in the XVII WBSC Women’s Softball World Cup next July in Europe, have an advantage over host Korea are also eyeing a berth.
Philippines had narrowly defeated Korea 2-0 on the opening day.
The others who are tipped to make the top four are defending champions Japan, China and Chinese Taipei.
CURRENT RESULTS:
Thailand 2 Hong Kong 5
Japan 17 India 0
Singapore 1 Philippines 8
China 7 Korea 0
Japan 8 Chinese Taipei 0
Korea 10 India 1
Ends.