Team Philippines opened its campaign in the 6th Asian Beach Games in Sanya with Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino emphasizing a fighting delegation composed of 101 athletes competing across a wide range of disciplines, all aiming to maximize medal opportunities while representing the country on a major international stage.

Tolentino said the delegation’s objective goes beyond immediate results, pointing to long-term development goals tied to the Philippines’ future hosting of major sporting events in 2028, where current performances are expected to serve as a benchmark for preparation and readiness.

He added that the competition provides a valuable platform for athletes to gain international experience in beach and outdoor sports, while also strengthening the country’s overall sports program through exposure to high-level opposition and diverse playing conditions.

Chef de mission Donaldo “Don” Caringal described the mood of the delegation as positive and steady ahead of the opening ceremonies in Sanya, noting that early momentum helped boost confidence among athletes competing across multiple venues and disciplines.

Handball win sets early tone for Team Philippines campaign

Caringal pointed to the men’s handball team’s opening win over Hong Kong as an encouraging start, highlighting how early victories can influence morale and set the tone for the rest of the Philippine campaign in the games.

The men’s handball team secured a 20-18, 28-16 victory over Hong Kong to open the country’s campaign, providing one of the first competitive highlights for Team Philippines in the multi-sport beach competition.

Tolentino also expressed optimism over other disciplines, including mixed martial arts, beach volleyball, and water-based sports, stressing that several athletes have strong potential to deliver podium finishes if they perform to expectations.

Caringal credited the support system behind the delegation, including the Philippine Sports Commission and national sports leadership, for ensuring proper preparation and logistical backing for athletes competing in the Asian Beach Games.

Two-time jujitsu world champion Annie Ramirez and Yman Xavier Baluyo will serve as flagbearers for the Philippines during the parade of athletes at the Tianya Haijiao Ring Theater in Sanya.

Wide range of sports fuels Philippine medal hopes

The Philippine contingent is competing in a wide range of sports including beach volleyball, 3×3 basketball, beach handball, beach wrestling, aquathlon, open water swimming, dragon boat, sailing, sport climbing, teqball, and beach athletics.

Among the medal hopefuls are jujitsu standout Kaila Napolis and the women’s beach volleyball team composed of Sunny Villapando, Sofiah Pagara, Khyle Progella, and Grydelle Matibag, all of whom are expected to compete strongly in their respective events.

The country’s 3×3 basketball squads and triathlon representatives, including Raven Alcoseba, Erika Burgos, Andrew Remolino, Inaki Lorbes, and Matthew Hermosa, are also expected to challenge for strong finishes in their respective categories.

The Philippines has previously collected five gold, 10 silver, and 35 bronze medals in past editions of the Asian Beach Games since 2008, setting a historical benchmark that the current delegation aims to improve upon in Sanya.