Southeast Asian Games gold medalist Jemyca Aribado asserted her might as she copped a gold medal in the Marigold-SGCC Singapore Challenger over the weekend at the Serangoon Gardens Country Club in Singapore.

The 32-year-old Aribado emerged as the only Filipino to win a medal after beating Malak Samir of Egypt, 11-9, 12-10, 11-8 in the women’s division of the event that serves as a preparation for the SEA Games from 9 to 20 December in Bangkok.

Aribado displayed her dominance on her way to the title, sweeping past home bet Naisha Singh, 11-6, 11-4, 11-8 before taking down Haneesha Veerakumar of Malaysia, 11-4, 11-6, 11-8 in the semifinals.

The Filipina is happy with her feat, saying that her victory proves that they deserve to compete in the international arena.

“It feels incredible to bring this title home for the Philippines. Every win at this level reminds us that we belong on the international stage,” Aribado said.

Philippine Squash Academy secretary general Robert Bachmann lauded Aribado’s victory, stressing that it is a proof that the country can compete with the best players in the Professional Squash Association.