The Philippines is positioning itself to host the Asian Youth Games (AYG) as the event transitions to a biennial schedule. Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino said on Wednesday, October 22, that the country could host the games if it receives government support.

“Kung ba-back-up-an ako ng government,” Tolentino said, emphasizing the need for local backing to bring the event home.

The announcement came during the 101st Executive Board meeting of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) in Manama, Bahrain, ahead of the 2025 AYG opening at Exhibition World Bahrain. Tolentino, an OCA Executive Board member, said hosting the games would create opportunities for Filipino athletes from grassroots programs to elite competition.

Government support key to hosting bid

Tolentino highlighted the importance of teamwork at home, noting that government support would be crucial for bringing the AYG to the Philippines. He also flagged the country’s interest in hosting both the AYG and the Asian Beach Games, with the final decision resting with government authorities.

“May pupuntahan talaga ang mga atleta sa Palaro, Batang Pinoy, ‘yung grassroots talaga,” Tolentino said, underscoring the role of the games in preparing young athletes for international stages.

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Philippines shines at 2025 AYG in Bahrain

The 2025 AYG officially opened Wednesday evening, featuring over 4,300 athletes competing in 253 events across 24 sports. The Philippines sent a 141-strong delegation participating in volleyball, teqball, golf, triathlon, mixed martial arts, taekwondo, muay, athletics, boxing, cycling, weightlifting, table tennis, badminton, wrestling, swimming, jiujitsu, and kurash.

The country’s first gold medal came from Kram Airam Carpio, who won the Pencak Silat girls’ 51–55 kg division with a 33–19 victory over Indonesia’s Qiken Dwi Tata Olifia.