CHENGDU, China — As the World Games 2025 draws to a close, Team Philippines prepares to join athletes from 110 nations in the colorful closing ceremony at Chengdu International Horticultural Expo Park. With four medals secured, the focus now turns to a stronger showing when the quadrennial meet heads to Karlsruhe, Germany in 2029.

Closing rites in Chengdu and handover to Karlsruhe

The one-hour ceremony will feature cultural performances, sports highlights, and a fireworks display. The symbolic highlight comes when the World Games flag is officially handed over to Karlsruhe Mayor Frank Mentrup, signaling the start of preparations for the next edition.

Karlsruhe has reportedly set aside a 120 million euro budget to host the 2029 World Games, marking its second time staging the competition after first hosting in 1989.

Team Philippines’ final efforts and medal tally

Before the evening festivities, powerlifter Joyce Reboton takes her shot at the podium in the super heavyweight division at the Hi-Tech Zone Sports Centre Gymnasium. Meanwhile, the duathlon mixed relay team of Kim Mangrobang, Merry Joy Trupa, Bea Quiambao, Franklin Yee, John Patrick Ciron, and Maynard Pecson return to Xinglong Lake Hubin Arena to close their campaign.

So far, the Philippines has collected four medals. Kaila Napolis earned silver in women’s ju-jitsu, Chezka Centeno claimed silver in women’s 10-ball billiards, Carlos Baylon Jr. secured bronze in men’s wushu sanda, and Aislinn Yap added bronze in women’s sambo combat.

The national team’s participation in Chengdu was supported by the Philippine Olympic Committee, led by President Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, and the Philippine Sports Commission under Chairman Patrick Gregorio.