Adeline “Adz” Dumapong and her friends and family
Adz’s Journey to the Paralympics
The film begins in 2000, capturing a moment of joy when Adz learns she has qualified to compete internationally. However, her excitement is dampened by the challenge of raising funds to make her dream a reality. Adz tirelessly makes cold calls, seeking support from agencies and individuals. Her efforts pay off when she secures enough funds to compete and win the Philippines’ first Paralympic bronze medal.
Today, Adz remains committed to giving back, despite the difficulties in finding sponsorships for grassroots para-athletes. She turned to GCash to raise financial support for non-national team para-athletes, hoping to inspire others to dream big and achieve their goals.
The film begins in 2000, capturing a moment of joy when Adz learns she has qualified to compete internationally. However, her excitement is dampened by the challenge of raising funds to make her dream a reality. Adz tirelessly makes cold calls, seeking support from agencies and individuals. Her efforts pay off when she secures enough funds to compete and win the Philippines’ first Paralympic bronze medal.
Today, Adz remains committed to giving back, despite the difficulties in finding sponsorships for grassroots para-athletes. She turned to GCash to raise financial support for non-national team para-athletes, hoping to inspire others to dream big and achieve their goals.
“Adz is truly an inspiration,” says Neil Trinidad, GCash’s Chief Marketing Officer. “Her story shows the potential in every person, no matter their abilities. We hope this film encourages more conversations about the importance of inclusion and the need for better support for the community of persons with disabilities.”
A Champion for Para-Athletes
Born in Kiangan, Ifugao, Adz Dumapong contracted polio at age three, which left her unable to walk. While staying at Bahay Mapagmahal, she discovered para-powerlifting through the Rehabilitation Department of the Philippine Orthopedic Center. Adz made history as the Philippines' first Paralympic medalist, winning bronze in Sydney. She has since earned 19 international medals, proving that disability is no barrier to greatness.
Born in Kiangan, Ifugao, Adz Dumapong contracted polio at age three, which left her unable to walk. While staying at Bahay Mapagmahal, she discovered para-powerlifting through the Rehabilitation Department of the Philippine Orthopedic Center. Adz made history as the Philippines' first Paralympic medalist, winning bronze in Sydney. She has since earned 19 international medals, proving that disability is no barrier to greatness.
But Adz’s impact goes beyond her athletic achievements. She is a passionate advocate for para-athletes, actively working to ensure equal opportunities and recognition for people with disabilities.
A Champion for the Community
After retiring from para-powerlifting, Adz continues to dedicate herself to empowering the PWD (Persons with Disabilities) community. Through her work with WOWLEAP, Inc., a women-led organization, she gained a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by people with disabilities. As Project Manager, Adz leads initiatives promoting inclusivity, economic independence, and social awareness.
“As an athlete with a disability, I thought I knew all the issues in our sector,” shares Adz. “But my time with WOWLEAP, Inc. opened my eyes to the broader needs of the community. I realized that the world is bigger than sports, and there’s still so much to learn and do to support persons with disabilities. Now, I’m more motivated than ever to help my community and reach out to more women with disabilities across the country.”
Beyond her role at WOWLEAP, Inc., Adz is also a sought-after speaker, regularly sharing her insights on disability sensitivity, resiliency, and inclusion at sports clinics, workshops, and schools. Her unwavering commitment to empowering the PWD community makes her a true inspiration.
GCash’s Commitment to Supporting the PWD Community
Inspired by Adz’s story, GCash is strengthening its commitment to financial inclusion and progress for all, especially for the PWD community. GCash has signed a memorandum of understanding with the National Council for Disability Affairs (NCDA) to promote an inclusive workplace where persons with disabilities can thrive. They’ve pledged to implement comprehensive policies, innovative programs, and accessible spaces for persons with disabilities by 2025, with NCDA’s support.
GCash has also partnered with WOWLEAP, Inc. to support their capacity-building programs. In collaboration with Visa, the company has donated wheelchairs to the Philippine Orthopedic Center to help enhance the quality of life for its beneficiaries.
“We’re proud to partner with organizations like NCDA and WOWLEAP, Inc. to support the PWD community,” says Winsley Bangit, Group Head of New Businesses and Wealth Management at GCash. “Adz’s story embodies our mission of financial inclusion. We’re committed to working closely with the PWD sector to provide financial education and support, ensuring everyone has equal opportunities to succeed.”
Looking ahead, GCash plans to continue collaborating with organizations to develop programs that meet the needs of the PWD community, helping them thrive in an inclusive society.
Just like Adz, you too can support the PWD community. With GCash, your transactions can help uplift others, contributing to the success of every Filipino. Watch Adz’s inspiring story in the full "Adz" short film on YouTube.
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