There will only be a handful of athletes representing Team Philippines in the SEA Games 2025 opening ceremonies on Tuesday, but expect the contingent led by Bryan Bagunas and Alex Eala to shine.
BANGKOK — Athletes, not anyone else, will be the main attraction for Team Philippines in the opening ceremonies of the Southeast Asian Games 2025 here on Tuesday at the Rajamangala National Stadium.
Due to unforeseen circumstances surrounding attendees on the side of hosts Thailand, a handful of athletes from the Philippine delegation will not be able to make it in time.
But flag bearers Bryan Bagunas of Alas Pilipinas men, and tennis superstar Alex Eala will be able to represent the contingent, as they fly in to Bangkok on Monday.
“Ngayon ang dating ni Alex at ni Bryan,” said Philippine Olympic Committee President Abraham Tolentino.
Some 140 athletes will be marching for Team Philippines — only a portion of the country’s record-breaking 1,600-strong contingent.
Sports officials will also be filling in some spots left by the other athletes who will not be able to make it in time.
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But don’t expect Tolentino himself to suit up and march on. At the end of the day, the POC President believes that this should be about the athletes and them alone.
“Time nila yan, para sa kanila [yung opening ceremonies].” said Tolentino.
The opening ceremonies is expected to show off each member country’s athletes while also incorporating host nation Thailand’s cultural heritage and artistic beauty.
Program begins 6 p.m., local time. This would also be livestreamed in the Philippines via One Sports YouTube and Pilipinas Live, as well as aired on One Sports, One Sports+, and RPTV.
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