BANGKOK — SEA Games first-timer Naomi Marjorie Cesar delivered a breakthrough performance for the Philippines, winning gold in a dramatic photo finish in the women’s 800 meters at Suphachalasai National Stadium on Monday, Dec. 15. The 16-year-old clocked 2:10.2 to edge Vietnam’s Thi Thu Ha Nguyen, who finished just a tenth of a second behind at 2:10.3. Bernalyn Bejoy completed the podium for the Philippines with a bronze in 2:10.6.

Cesar said the victory was beyond what she expected, admitting she was still in disbelief after her SEA Games debut. The teenage runner, younger sister of Philippine women’s football team member Malea Cesar, called representing the country and winning gold a dream come true.

Teen sensation rises on regional stage

Cesar said competing against experienced Southeast Asian athletes was both challenging and rewarding. She credited her composure in the final stretch to extensive preparation and support from her coaches and teammates.

The young runner added that standing on the podium wearing national colors made the moment even more meaningful. The experience, she said, has inspired her to aim for greater achievements in athletics.

Cesar also reflected on the photo-finish nature of the race, noting that every fraction of a second counted and that her focus in the final meters made all the difference. She plans to use this SEA Games debut as motivation for future regional and international competitions.

Loraña silences home crowd in men’s 800m

Hussein Loraña continued the golden night for the Philippines by winning the men’s 800 meters with a time of 1:48.80. Thailand’s Joshua Robert Atkinson, the home crowd favorite, took silver in 1:49.24, while Malaysia’s Wan Zahari Wan Muhammad Fazri completed the podium with a time of 1:49.85.

Loraña admitted the victory was unexpected given the caliber of his competitors. He said that staying composed in the final stretch and maintaining strategic pacing were key to his success.

The Filipino runner added that defeating Southeast Asia’s fastest middle-distance athletes has given him confidence for upcoming competitions. Loraña described the win as a milestone in his career and a proud moment representing the Philippines on a regional stage.