World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka knocks out by Anisimova in semis
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PH to send record-breaking delegation to SEA Games in December
The Philippines is poised to make a striking impact at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand, running from December 9 to 20, by assembling its largest delegation in history. With unwavering government support, a remarkable 1,600-strong contingent—predominantly athletes from a variety of team sports—will proudly represent the nation at this highly esteemed regional event.
“This is our biggest SEA Games delegation yet,” declared Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Abraham Tolentino, signaling a bold new chapter in the country’s sporting legacy.
This monumental team will compete in an astonishing 574 events across 50 sports, nearly doubling the 905 athletes who showcased their talents at the 2023 Phnom Penh Games. Prior to this, the largest Philippine contingent had consisted of 1,115 members during the home games in 2019.
Photo courtesy Philippine News Agency
“This is our biggest SEA Games delegation yet,” declared Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Abraham Tolentino, signaling a bold new chapter in the country’s sporting legacy.
Tolentino, who also leads PhilCycling, attributes this surge in participation to the Philippines’ expanded commitment to embracing a broader array of team sports, going beyond traditional powerhouses like basketball, football, and volleyball.
“Even winter sports are part of our campaign,” he highlighted, referencing the inclusion of ice hockey and ice skating.
While this unprecedented delegation comes with increased logistical and financial demands, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chair Patrick Gregorio affirmed the agency’s unwavering dedication to supporting these athletes.
“We just concluded our board meeting and addressed numerous requests regarding the SEA Games. We are prioritizing their needs—whether it's training, international exposure, or resources,” Gregorio stated.
With a record-breaking delegation and a strategic focus on diverse sports, the Philippines is now determined to leave an indelible mark in Thailand, building on the momentum from its impressive performances in previous SEA Games. This is not just participation; it’s a powerful statement of the nation’s growing athletic prowess and commitment to excellence on the regional stage.
