Philippine Sports Commission chairman Patrick Gregorio is aiming high for Team Philippines at this year’s Southeast Asian Games in Thailand, hoping the delegation can crack the top four in the medal tally.
The country is coming off a 33-gold medal haul in the Cambodia SEA Games two years ago, which earned a fifth-place finish.
Gregorio is confident the team can surpass that benchmark this year.
“Sa akin, siyempre, better than the last SEA Games ang performance natin. Mahirap humanap ng target kasi depende rin sa napanalunan ng iba. Ako, doon tayo sa ranking,” Gregorio said on Monday after watching the Philippines face Vietnam in the men’s handball competition at the Indoor Athletics Stadium in Pattaya.
While Gregorio sees a strong Team Philippines, he is equally enthusiastic about the delegation’s mix of seasoned athletes and future stars who could represent the country on major international stages for years to come.
“But as I’ve said, right from the start, when we sent a very, very good delegation, alam naman natin na exposure is also very important, aside from the medal haul. Let’s prepare for the SEA Games, as we prepare for the Asian Games and as we prepare for the Los Angeles Olympics,” he added.
“‘Yan ang pinaka-importante sa akin. Minsan ang sports, it’s the opportunity to compete first.”
Gregorio is also eagerly anticipating Tuesday’s opening ceremony at Rajamangala National Stadium, where the Philippine team will don uniforms designed by Avel Bacudio.
“Tomorrow is the opening. Excited ako to see the Philippine delegation wearing their well-designed uniform,” said Gregorio.
“Alam naman natin na talagang maraming humahangga sa bagong design ng Philippine Olympic Committee so congratulations.”
