PHNOM PENH, Cambodia — The Philippines’ solid showing of four gold, 10 silver and eight bronzes medals in the 32nd Southeast Asian Games only proved that it has become a force to be reckoned with in the region.
Leading the charge during the biennial meet for the winning bunch dubbed Athletics Team Philippines was world No. 3 pole vaulter EJ Obiena, whose feat was followed by the golden performances of long jumper Janry Ubas, Filipino-American hurdler Eric Cray and the men’s 4×400-meter relay squad.
Obiena didn’t just top his event.
The Italy-based vaulter likewise shattered the SEA Games record anew, relegating the other bets to mere spectators.
Ubas, seeing action in his fifth SEA Games, finally hit paydirt by breaking the meet mark of 8.03m with a jump of 8.08m.
Since 2015, Ubas, a native of Misamis Oriental, could only show a collection of silver and bronze medals.
Like Obiena and Ubas, Cray was not to be outdone as well.
The 34-year-old ruled the 400 hurdles to capture his eighth SEA Games gold, his sixth overall in the event.
Highlighting the Philippines’ dazzling display was the eye-popping triumph of the fabulous foursome of Michael Carlo del Prado, Frederick Ramirez, Joyme Sequita and Umajesty Williams.
Showcasing amazing athleticism, the Filipinos beat Thailand by a mere 0.01 second to nail the gold in the edge-of-your-seat finish.
Their thrilling win gave the Philippines the dramatic finish by having the Philippine anthem as the last national hymn to be played in the athletics competition at the SEA Games.
The exceptional achievements of these athletes were buoyed by the committed support and valuable sponsorship of ICTSI, the exclusive team presenter.
ICTSI’s assurance to supporting Athletics Team Philippines has been instrumental in providing the necessary resources particularly during the SEAG competition.
The athletes’ remarkable performances are a testament to their relentless dedication, the guidance of their coaches, and the support of the entire team.
ICTSI takes pride in being the exclusive team presenter for Athletics Team Philippines at the 32nd Southeast Asian Games.
