The Sochi Winter Olympics may be over but for Filipino figure skater Michael Christian Martinez, the journey to glory appears to be just beginning.

Though he didn’t win a medal, he’s already made history as the first Southeast Asian Olympic figure skater and the Philippines love their new sporting star.

Filipino figure skater Michael Christian Martinez may not have won a medal at the Winter Games in Sochi, but he’s come home a hero. Everywhere he goes - from the streets of Manila to shopping malls there they are, hundreds of screaming and adoring fans.

Says his ever-supportive mother, Maria Teresa. That’s because most Filipinos didn’t have the slightest idea that someone from their country was making history as the first Southeast Asian figure skater to qualify for the Olympics.

"I’m expecting he will reach the Olympics, but not at his young age, cause he’s only 17." Al Marinas, Martinez' Coach said.

This is where it all started for Michael. It’s one out of just four skating rinks in the Philippines. He was eight then, strolling in the mall with his mother, when he saw this rink and decided to try figure skating.

It had been a struggle getting to the Olympics with little financial support from the government and the lack of resources in the country. But Michael has nothing but words of appreciation.

"To the Philippine Skating Union, the Philippine Olympic Committee and the Philippine Sports Commission, thank you for your continued support. Thank you for believing in this sport and for encouraging kids like me to pursue what we love." Michael Christian Martinez, Olympic Figure Skater said.

And judging by the crowd in this skating rink, it seems Michael is already inspiring a new generation of figure skaters in a country where snow doesn’t even fall.