The Link, May 8, 2025
By Wayne Allen R. Cagatin
New heights have been thrusted higher as renowned Olympian pole vaulter, EJ Obiena, also the brand ambassador of Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, sought to take a leap and visit our beloved Lourdes School of Mandaluyong last September 12, 2024.
This was a day Lourdesians are to remember. EJ’s talk, at the Albacina Hall, instead of opting for a bog standard presentation, proved to be a much more intimate Q and A, almost like a conversation between friends. An interesting approach, and a welcomed one at that.
He covered what it was like to be in his position, the pressure amidst the fame, but also what keeps him going as a diligent athlete. As the Lourdesians kept hitting him with questions, each answer hit even harder as it felt like he meant every single word. He sought to relate with the young student-athletes, and much like everything else, that he did with flying colors.
The Lourdesians did not miss out on any EJ action. After the program, he was greeted enthusiastically by students and teachers alike for pictures and even signed a few jerseys. On top of that, he went on a tour of the LSM campus. He visited the Blessed Jose Maria of Manila Museum, and waved as he walked through the halls of the JHS and SHS buildings, having small yet meaningful interactions with the Lourdesians. He even stopped by to catch a science experiment as it's being conducted.
Behind the fame and stardom, he proved to be a truly genuine person. He had shown that he never forgot his beginnings, and is aware a lot of us are going on our own journey like he did. Showing interest in the school, providing advice, and even reaching out to help with the school’s sports program, showed that despite reaching a new level, he keeps his feet planted on the ground.