With the country’s new facilities and refurbished venues, the Philippines is equipped to host another Southeast Asian Games.
Philippine Olympic Committee president Bambol Tolentino told as much the Southeast Asian Games Federation during a council meeting last week.
“Matagal na uli ang susunod eh,” said Tolentino during the PSA Forum presented by San Miguel Corp., Go For Gold, MILO, Amelie Hotel Manila, Braska Restaurant, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), and powered by Smart, with Upstream Media as official webcast partner.
“Kung tutuusin, twenty years ang next kung susundin mo ang cycle. Sayang naman, sayang ang momentum.”
Last year, the Philippines hosted the 30th edition of the regional meet. Events took place in New Clark City, Manila, and Subic.
The next three SEA Games hosts are locked to Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand.
In 2027, Brunei has the task of hosting, followed by Laos and Indonesia.
If one of those countries waive their hosting duties, the Philippines is willing to step in.
“Magkasunod ‘yung Brunei and Laos, so alin man sa dalawang mag-back out, nauna akong mag-offer. I was serious with that.”
Indonesia has already stated that it would be hard for them to host the 2030 edition of the tournament since it is also bidding for the 2032 Olympics.
