The 33rd Southeast Asian (SEA) Games officially opened on Tuesday, December 9 at Rajamangala Stadium in Bangkok, with Team Philippines aiming for a strong performance rather than the overall title. Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino said the country would be satisfied with at least matching or surpassing its previous gold tally.
“If we can get at least 60 golds, that would be okay,” Tolentino told Manila-based reporters, referencing the 58 golds won in the 2023 Games in Cambodia. That total represented a six-gold improvement from the 2021 edition in Hanoi, although the country’s record gold haul remains 149 from the 2019 Games hosted in the Philippines. Tolentino emphasized that the opening ceremony is a moment for athletes, not officials, and he will sit it out to allow more athletes to participate.
Eala and Bagunas Lead Philippine Parade
Team Philippines is sending 200 athletes and officials for the opening, with tennis sensation Alex Eala and volleyball standout Bryan Bagunas sharing flag-bearing duties. Some of the newly arrived athletes from Manila may not participate in the ceremony due to heightened security for the attendance of King Vajiralongkorn of Thailand.
Tolentino noted, “That’s their moment; the opening is for them,” highlighting the importance of giving athletes the spotlight as they represent the country on an international stage. The delegation includes both seasoned competitors and newcomers, reflecting a record number of Filipino athletes at the Games.
Early Wins Set the Tone
Competition had already begun before the formal opening. The men’s baseball team crushed Malaysia 21-0 in Pathum Thani, improving to a 3-0 record as they prepare for a likely gold showdown against Thailand, which also started with three straight victories.
Coach Orlando Binarao said, “We have our eyes on them, but we also know that they have their eyes on us.”
Meanwhile, Team Philippines’ women’s T-10 and men’s T-20 cricket squads kicked off their campaigns, the only events for the country before the opening ceremony.
With early victories and a realistic medal target, Team Philippines is focused on delivering a strong showing in Bangkok, proving that preparation, talent, and determination can make a difference on the SEA Games stage.
