Manila: The Philippine Sports Association for the Differently Abled (PHILSPADA) is stepping up its grassroots recruitment program to discover and develop more para-athletes who can represent the country in international competitions. Speaking during a media briefing marking the 48th National Disability Rights Week, PHILSPADA President Michael Barredo highlighted the organization's collaboration with government agencies, local government units, schools, and civic organizations to identify promising athletes, particularly among the youth. According to Philippines News Agency, Barredo announced that PHILSPADA is working with the Department of Education to expand para-sports events in school competitions from four to six, thereby creating more opportunities to recruit athletes at an early age. The association is also conducting grassroots activities, including coaches' training and mini competitions in Baguio City, to identify potential national team members. PHILSPADA, an organization under the Philippine Spor ts Commission established over 30 years ago, promotes sports participation among persons with disabilities while helping build their confidence and open opportunities for recreation and professional competition. Barredo noted that the national pool currently includes 232 para-athletes and 64 coaches, all of whom receive government allowances, benefits, and incentives. He emphasized that Filipino para-athletes continue to excel on the international stage, demonstrating their ability to compete alongside the world's best. One of the recent milestones was the induction of Ifugao powerlifter Adeline Ancheta Dumapong into the Hall of Fame of national athletes on June 26, making her one of seven para-athletes to receive the honor. The Philippine team also achieved significant success at recent international competitions, winning 33 medals, including eight golds, at the Asian Para Games in Dubai in December 2025, and securing 144 medals, including 45 golds, at the ASEAN Para Games in Thailand in January, where the y improved their overall finish to fourth place. Barredo shared that sports have transformed the lives of many para-athletes, enabling them to build homes, start livelihoods, and achieve financial independence through their accomplishments. "They thought they would not reach anything because of their condition but through sports, their achievements have progressed and developed," he added.