The Philippines men’s handball team nearly pulled off a shocker in its Southeast Asian Games opener, falling just short in a 25-27 defeat to powerhouse Vietnam at the Eastern National Sports Training Center in Chonburi on Monday, Dec. 8. Despite the loss, the performance highlighted the squad’s resilience and raised hopes for a medal in Group A.

Vietnam, the defending champions in men’s and women’s indoor handball and men’s beach handball, completed a golden sweep in the 2021 SEA Games. The Filipinos, however, managed to keep the game close, signaling that they are a team not to be underestimated.

Philippines proves competitive despite being underdogs

6-foot-4 pivot Ethan Casares said the team’s showing was a statement to opponents. “I think ito ay magiging way to show that we are not a team that is easy to push over, kailangan nilang paghandaan din kami,” Casares said. “Lalaban kami at lalaban. Doon ako natutuwa for our team.”

Casares and several teammates joined the national squad only a few months ago, and expectations were modest entering the tournament. Casares brought experience from his two-year stint as a physical therapist and occasional practice player for PBA club Rain or Shine. That background helped him contribute significantly against Vietnam, keeping the score tight and challenging the champions throughout the match.

Eyes on redemption in upcoming matches

The Philippines now looks to bounce back against Malaysia on Thursday, Dec. 11, and will also face Singapore, Indonesia, and host Thailand in Group A. Casares noted the team’s excitement and growth despite being a relatively new squad in international handball. “Ang dami kaming hindi sure noong una kasi for some of us nga, ito ‘yung unang international stint namin in handball,” he said.

Team officials and players are optimistic that the early test against Vietnam will prepare the squad for strong performances in the remaining games and keep medal hopes alive.