The Philippines capped its campaign at the 13th ASEAN Para Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, with its best medal haul in the tournament’s history, collecting 45 golds, 37 silvers, and 52 bronze medals.

The total easily surpassed the country’s previous performance of 34 golds, 33 silvers, and 50 bronzes at the 12th edition in Cambodia in 2023, marking the Philippines’ strongest showing since the Games began in 2001 in Malaysia.

Chief of mission Goody Custodio credited the success to the athletes’ synergy and focus in their respective events.

Young talents fuel gold rush

Athletics proved the most fruitful discipline, contributing 16 gold medals to the overall tally. Swimming added 13 golds, while chess brought home 12, highlighting the depth of the country’s para-athlete program.

“I think the key was that both our athletes and coaches were able to really focus. At the same time, we were able to integrate young para-athletes into the team,” Custodio said.

“Most of our medalists are actually young talents. Of course, our veterans are still there and they continue to deliver, but a big portion of our success came from new talents coming from different classes, especially among visually impaired athletes. That’s where many of our medalists came from.”

FIDE Master-elect Darry Custodio led the Philippines with six gold medals, while Paralympic swimmer Angel Otom contributed five golds and a silver to the medal haul.

Support and teamwork drive success

Hosts Thailand reclaimed the overall crown after 11 years with 135 golds, 144 silvers, and 114 bronze medals, while Indonesia placed second with 135-143-114. Malaysia rounded out the podium with 64 golds, 64 silvers, and 73 bronze medals as it prepares to host next year’s Games in Kuala Lumpur.

Custodio emphasized that the record medal haul was the result of collaboration between the Philippine Sports Commission, the Philippine Paralympic Committee, and private partners who ensured athletes were fully equipped to compete at the highest level.

“The biggest takeaway is the importance of support — from our sponsors like the PSC and MVP Sports, and also from the media. Just by releasing the results and medal tallies, the athletes already feel the support,” he said.

“Even their families back in the Philippines were able to follow them through videos and updates, which gives them strength. That kind of support really matters to our athletes.”