Paris, France – The world watched in awe and the Philippines erupted in jubilation as John Cabang delivered a jaw-dropping performance that will be remembered for generations. In an astonishing 110-meter hurdles sprint, Cabang didn’t just win — he rewrote history, becoming the first-ever Filipino to win gold in the men’s 110-meter hurdles.

His time? A blistering 13.08 seconds — just 0.03 off the Asian record.
His legacy? Already legendary.

John Cabang Tolentino competes in hurdles in Paris Olmypics

A Moment That Shook the Track World

In a race packed with Olympic veterans and world-class hurdlers, no one saw John Cabang coming. From the moment the gun fired, the 25-year-old Mindanao native surged like lightning, his stride cutting through air with unshakable confidence.

By the final hurdle, it was no longer a competition — it was a coronation. As Cabang crossed the finish line, stunned silence swept the crowd, followed by an explosion of cheers. The underdog had not only won — he had dominated.

“I just ran with everything I had. This is for the Philippines,” Cabang said, voice cracking, in a post-race interview that’s now gone viral.

Watch the Full Race Highlight Here:

A Historic First — For a Nation That Never Stopped Dreaming

For decades, the 110-meter hurdles was a podium the Philippines had never touched. Cabang shattered that ceiling, bringing hope to a nation often overlooked in sprint events.

In mere hours, hashtags like #GoldenCabang, #HurdleHero, and #PusoNgPilipinas exploded across social media. Fans, celebrities, and world leaders joined in, hailing the new champion as a symbol of Filipino perseverance and pride.

From Dirt Roads to Global Podiums

John Cabang Tolentino sumungkit ng gold medal

Cabang’s journey began in the humblest of beginnings. Raised in a remote barangay in Mindanao, he trained barefoot, using makeshift bamboo hurdles. But what he lacked in resources, he made up for in fire and faith.

“He had no shoes, but he had dreams,” said his former coach. “Now, the whole world knows his name.”

Global Shockwaves: No One Saw Him Coming

Even international analysts couldn’t believe what they saw. An American commentator declared, “Cabang didn’t just win — he exploded onto the global stage.” Olympic gold medalist Aries Merritt tweeted:

“That was insane. Welcome to the club, John Cabang. You earned every bit of that gold.”

The Numbers Don’t Lie

Final Time: 13.08 seconds

Margin of Victory: 0.12 seconds

Fastest 110-meter hurdle time by a Filipino ever

First gold medal for the Philippines in the event

Coming Home to a Hero’s Welcome

Cabang is set to return to Manila this weekend, where a hero’s parade is already in the works. The Philippine Sports Commission has announced a ten-million peso incentive, and major brands are lining up with endorsement deals.

Even Malacañang Palace released a statement:

“John Cabang has inspired an entire nation. His victory is a triumph of heart over hardship.”

What’s Next for John Cabang?

With the Paris 2024 Olympics off the table due to injury, all eyes are now on Cabang’s recovery and future appearances. Sports doctors have confirmed his condition is improving — and fans can’t wait to see him back on the track, chasing world records and Olympic gold.

A Legend Is Born

In a world that often favors the privileged, John Cabang reminded us that greatness can rise from grit, faith, and an unstoppable Filipino spirit.

From training on dirt roads to standing atop the world, Cabang is more than an athlete — he’s a movement.

And as his story spreads across the globe, one thing becomes crystal clear:

The Philippines is no longer just part of the race. We’re here to win it.

From dreams to destiny, from the sidelines to the spotlight — this is John Cabang’s golden era. And it’s only just beginning.