John Cabang Tolentino made history on Friday at the Supachalasai National Stadium, breaking the Southeast Asian Games record in the men’s 110-meter hurdles and delivering the Philippines’ first gold medal in athletics at the 2025 SEA Games. Tolentino clocked a time of 13.66 seconds, surpassing the previous record of 13.69 set by Thailand’s Jamras Rittidet in 2015.

Singapore’s Chen Xiang Ang finished second with 13.75 seconds, while Abdul Lattif Mohamad Armin Zahryl claimed bronze in 13.85. Tolentino celebrated the victory, expressing pride in raising the Philippine flag at the top of the podium.

Tolentino thrives under pressure

The Filipino hurdler admitted to some missteps during the race but credited his strength and focus for securing the historic gold. “For me, it’s a big honor to raise the flag on the top of the podium for the Philippines. So I’m super happy,” Tolentino said. He added, “I had some wrong steps but I’m strong so it didn’t matter,” highlighting his composure under pressure.

Tolentino’s performance not only set a new SEA Games benchmark but also energized Team Philippines’ athletics squad, demonstrating their growing competitiveness in the region.

Rodriguez shines in 400 meters

SEA Games debutant Jeralyn Rodriguez claimed bronze in the women’s 400 meters, finishing with a time of 53.40 seconds. Her performance secured a berth at the 2026 World Athletics U20 Championships at Hayward Field, University of Oregon.

Vietnam’s Nguyen Thi Ngoc took gold, while Thailand’s Josephine Onuorah Chinenye earned silver. Rodriguez’s achievement marks a significant milestone for the young athlete and adds to the Philippines’ medal haul in track and field at the Games.