PH fencer transfers allegiance to Ivory Coast

By Peter Atencio

MAXINE Esteban, who was cut from the national team early this year due to injury, is taking her act to the West African country of Côte d’Ivoire, also known as Ivory Coast.

The 21-year-old Esteban has informed Philippine Fencing Association president Richard Gomez and the Philippine Olympic Committee of her decision to change her nationality. Esteban will first seek out a threeyear residency period in her new place of residence, before she will be able to suit up for the Côte d’Ivoire national team.

“My immediate transfer will allow me to continue with my training and competition without interruption, as well as share my skills and talents with a smaller fencing community in Côte d’Ivoire,” said Esteban in a letter she sent to POC president and Tagaytay City Mayor Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino.

The PFA has given its to Esteban’s request.