Pasay city: Paris Olympian Aleah Finnegan believes that the 3rd FIG Artistic Gymnastics Junior World Championships will further boost the popularity and development of the sport in the country. The prestigious event will be held on Nov. 20-24, 2025 at the Manila Marriott Hotel Grand Ballroom inside the Newport World Resorts in Pasay City.

According to Philippines News Agency, Finnegan expressed the importance of showcasing high-level gymnastics in the Philippines to inspire young enthusiasts. 'Most of these young girls who may want to go into gymnastics just watch the athletes on TV or social media. But now we are actually bringing in high-level athletes to inspire and push them. It is the junior worlds, after all, so the athletes competing will be very talented,' said the double gold medalist at the 2023 Cambodia Southeast Asian Games.

Last year, Carlos Edriel Yulo made history by winning two gold medals at the Paris Olympics. Finnegan emphasized the objective of igniting inspiration among Filipino athletes and gymnasts through the gymnastics showcase. 'We want to show the world that the Philippines is here to play. We don't want to be overlooked and show we really are pushing for the sports of gymnastics,' explained Finnegan, who is currently in Manila preparing for the world seniors next month in Jakarta, Indonesia, and the Thailand SEA Games this December.

Finnegan also expressed her excitement about being present to support the federation in making the event successful. 'I am actually really surprised that it lined up well and that I am here. I am really excited to be a part of it and help out the federation with whatever they need so we can get the needed support to host this,' she said.

Yulo's younger brother Karl Eldrew and Elisabeth Antone will lead the Philippines' campaign at the Junior World Championships, which is backed by Senators Pia Cayetano and Christopher 'Bong' Go. The 2023 edition in Antalya, Turkey, saw participation from 283 athletes across 64 countries.

Gymnastics Association of the Philippines president Cynthia Carrion highlighted the positive response to the event, noting that over 70 countries and close to a thousand athletes are expected to compete. Carrion also extended her gratitude to Finnegan for her support of the event.