POC aims to surpass 2023 SEAG medal haul

POC Aims to Surpass 2023 SEA Games Medal Haul Philippines Targets 60 Gold Medals in 2025

The Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) is setting its sights on a realistic goal for Team Philippines at the upcoming 2025 Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games) in Thailand. Rather than striving for the overall championship title, POC President Abraham Bambol Tolentino wants the team to exceed its previous medal count from the 2023 edition held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

Setting Realistic Expectations

In 2023, Team Philippines captured an impressive 58 golds, 85 silvers, and 117 bronzes, finishing fourth overall. With a total of 1,168 athletes sent to compete in the biennial multi-sport event, Tolentino is focusing on improving the team's medal tally rather than aiming for the top spot.

Optimistic Outlook

Tolentino acknowledges that reaching the top spot will be a challenging task for Team Philippines, especially with powerhouse host country Thailand pulling out all the stops to secure the overall championship title. However, he remains optimistic about the team's chances of surpassing its previous performance.

Our goal is to match or exceed our previous performance from last time (SEA Games Cambodia). We finished 58 golds last year, and if we produce more than 58, we're already successful, Tolentino said. If we manage to secure a 60-gold medal haul, we'll be considered successful.

Confidence in the Team

Tolentino expressed confidence in the country's athletes, particularly Gilas Pilipinas, the national basketball team, which is expected to defend its title despite host Thailand's tight rules and late-minute tweaks. He also lauded the boxing squad, featuring Weldon Mindoro, Eumir Marcial, and Nesthy Petecio, and expects strong performances from them.

Team Philippines' Strong Performance

As the 33rd SEA Games opening ceremony commences on Tuesday, Tolentino revealed that at least 60 to 140 athletes will be wearing Barong-designed uniforms by Avel Bacudio. He also confirmed that tennis star Alex Eala and men's volleyball icon Bryan Bagunas will be carrying the country's flag.

Incentives for Athletes

Tolentino expressed hope that Malacanang would once again be generous to the country's athletes, citing the precedent set in the previous SEA Games where incentives were doubled. You all remember the last time? Their incentive was doubled, and I hoped that this time, it would be the same, Tolentino said.

Conclusion

The Philippines is setting its sights on a realistic goal for Team Philippines at the 2025 SEA Games. With a focus on improving medal tally and confident performances from key athletes, POC aims to surpass its previous performance in 2023. Will they succeed? Only time will tell.

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.