The Philippines has chosen tennis star Alexandra Eala and volleyball standout Bryan Bagunas as flag bearers for the 33rd Southeast Asian Games opening ceremony on December 9 in Bangkok. They will lead the national delegation during the parade at Rajamangala National Stadium.

Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino said the selection was based on the athletes’ achievements and ability to inspire. The parade delegation is expected to include about 300 members, but it could be reduced to 200 due to the national mourning for Queen Sirikit and the impact of flooding in Songkhla.

Eala and Bagunas shine on the international stage

The SEA Games will feature nearly 1,700 Filipino athletes competing in 50 sports across 574 events. With Songkhla removed as a venue, competitions will be held in Bangkok and Chonburi.

Eala has made history in Philippine tennis. She is the highest-ranked Filipina in WTA standings and the first to reach the second round of the US Open. Her rise has brought global attention to Philippine sports.

Bagunas recently led the men’s national volleyball team to a landmark FIVB victory over Egypt. He also nearly guided the team to an upset against Iran. His leadership and performance have made him one of the Philippines’ most influential athletes.

Philippine SEA Games delegation prepares for success

Tolentino emphasized that the POC values athletes who demonstrate dedication and inspire the youth. He said Eala and Bagunas represent the qualities that the Philippines wants to highlight on the SEA Games stage.

The national delegation is finalizing preparations for the opening ceremony. Team Philippines hopes that the flag bearers will motivate other athletes to perform their best throughout the competition.