Eumir Marcial ended a week-long string of disappointments for Philippine boxing by claiming the men’s 80kg gold medal at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games. The Tokyo Olympics bronze medalist defeated Indonesia’s Maikhel Muskita, 4-1, on Friday, December 19, at the Chulalongkorn University Sports Center in Bangkok.

The win gave Marcial his fifth SEA Games gold and helped the Philippines finish the boxing competition with one gold, three silvers, and six bronzes. After a tense start with both fighters tied through two rounds, Marcial delivered a decisive right hand in the final frame, followed by a series of punches that sealed the victory.

Marcial ends PH boxing’s gold drought

The 30-year-old’s triumph brought relief to the Philippine boxing team, which had faced controversial calls in earlier bouts. “I didn’t expect this. I never imagined I would win my fifth SEA Games gold here. This is not just for me—it’s for the country and the Philippine boxing team,” Marcial said.

His victory also avenged the earlier setbacks of Aira Villegas, Jay Brian Baricuatro, and Flint Jara, who all took silver after close bouts against Thai opponents. Marcial’s gold ensured the Philippine boxing squad avoided a gold-less campaign in Bangkok.

Team Philippines finishes boxing campaign with pride

Marcial’s performance demonstrated the resilience and determination of the Philippine boxing team despite adversity. His win highlighted the importance of staying focused and seizing opportunities even when earlier results did not go in the team’s favor.

The triumph also sets a positive tone for upcoming international competitions, showing that Filipino boxers can deliver decisive victories under pressure. The gold medal serves as both a morale boost and a statement of the team’s potential on the regional stage.