BANGKOK, Thailand — Team Philippines wrapped up its campaign in the 33rd Southeast Asian Games with a total of 276 medals—50 gold, 73 silver, and 153 bronze—finishing sixth overall, one place below its pre-Games target. Despite the shortfall, Philippine sports officials described the campaign as a success defined by breakthroughs, defended championships, and crucial victories against the host nation.

The Philippines missed its projected 58-gold, fifth-place finish achieved at the 2023 Cambodia SEA Games and remained far below its historic 149-gold haul as host in 2019. Still, Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) President Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino stressed that performance quality mattered more than medal counts.

“Very successful para sa amin. We broke many records, we defended our games, and we beat their games—that’s what matters,” Tolentino said, pointing to victories in football and the successful defense of basketball titles.

Officials acknowledged the challenges posed by eligibility restrictions and host-country limitations, describing the competition as “brutal,” yet praised Filipino athletes for prevailing in key events under difficult conditions.

Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio highlighted the country’s 153 bronze medals—the highest total among all participating nations—as a strong indicator of depth and a solid foundation for grassroots development and future Olympic success.

Athletics led the gold medal count with five titles, including standout performances by Ernest John Obiena in pole vault and Hokett Delos Santos in the decathlon. Significant contributions also came from aquatics, combat sports, gymnastics, team sports, and emerging disciplines, underscoring the breadth of the Philippines’ continued sporting progress.

— Via TPNC Global Newsdesk