President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday led a homecoming celebration for Filipino athletes who competed in the 33rd Southeast Asian Games, praising their discipline and resilience as the Philippines finished sixth overall and recorded its highest medal haul in recent editions of the regional meet.
Speaking at the Foro de Intramuros in Manila, the President welcomed more than 1,500 athletes, the country’s largest delegation in SEA Games history, and credited their performance in Thailand as proof of what Filipino athletes can achieve through commitment and sacrifice.
“It is always an honor and a joy to be surrounded by high-achieving athletes like we have today,” Mr. Marcos said.
“You are a shining example of what can be done with discipline, with commitment, with passion, with sacrifice,” he added.
The Philippines collected a total of 277 medals, surpassing its medal output in the 2023 and 2021 SEA Games.
The President acknowledged that while the country placed sixth overall, officials believe the team could aim higher in future competitions.
“The Philippines ranked sixth, and as our Olympic Chairman mentioned, it should be higher. But no worries, we will bounce back,” Marcos said in Filipino.
He singled out several historic achievements, including Alex Eala’s gold medal in women’s singles tennis, making her the first Filipina to win the event in 26 years.
He likewise recognized pole vaulter EJ Obiena, who secured his fourth SEA Games gold medal, and the Philippine Women’s National Football Team, which won gold in the first-ever inclusion of women’s football in the SEA Games.
As part of the recognition, the chief executive announced cash incentives from the Office of the President for medalists.
Gold medalists will receive P300,000 each, silver medalists P150,000, and bronze medalists P60,000.
Athletes who won in other international competitions outside the SEA Games will receive P10,000 each.
The President also reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening sports development through expanded grassroots and youth programs, improved facilities, and increased support for athletes competing on the global stage.
