Ardina sets record straight on Olympic uniform debacle

MANILA, Philippines – If you think the saga of Dottie Ardina at the Olympics is over, think again.

Following the Paris Games, the Filipina golfer has shed light on the events that led to the non-issuance of their uniforms, which resulted in a viral video capturing her frustration.

In her latest Facebook post, Ardina expressed deep gratitude to those who supported her and fellow golfer Bianca Pagdanganan. Despite falling short in their medal quest, she emphasized their relentless fight until the very end.

"It’s an immense honor to represent the Philippines," Ardina said in Filipino.

However, she questioned why she was being criticized for expressing her frustration over the uniform issue in a video posted before Day 3 of the women’s golf competition. The video, shared by her mother, went viral, drawing mixed reactions but largely supporting Ardina and condemning those responsible for the situation.

“Hindi po ako kaagad nag-salita tungkol dito dahil nasa kalagitnaan ako ng laro. Pero parang lalo pong lumalakas ang usap-usapan na nagdulot ng negatibong reaksyon sa mga nagpapatakbo at namamahala ng Philippine women's golf team. Napagsabihan pa po ako na alisin ang video na may kasamang pagsisi pa galing sa akin na ang pagsasalita ko ay gumawa ng napakalaking issue. Hind po ito tinanggal ng mommy ko. Ngayon po ay minarapat ko nang magsalita ng kaunti tungkol dito,” Ardina disclosed.

She clarified that her statements are based on her personal experience. “Hindi ko po naisip na ito ay lalaki ng ganito at magiging national issue. Bago pa ito lumaki lalo, gusto ko sanang linawin ang mga ilang bagay na lumabas sa official statements ng POC (Philippine Olympic Committee) at NGAP (National Golf Association of the Philippines),” she added.

Ardina explained that the final tournament list for Olympic golf was released on June 25. However, the POC sent her the uniform size forms on June 13, along with instructions on obtaining an athlete visa exemption. While competing in the LPGA tournaments in the US, she inquired about the uniforms and golf bag from the NGAP on July 28. She was informed that the golf bag would be brought along and the uniforms would be sent directly to Paris