The Philippines is all set to send 101 athletes to the 6th Asian Beach Games, with Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino saying Wednesday, April 15, 2026, that preparations are complete from start to finish.

The continental event will be held from April 22 to 30 in Sanya, China, marking the return of the Beach Games after a 10-year hiatus. Tolentino said the delegation is ready not only for competition but also for a significant moment at the closing ceremony.

The POC chief highlighted the importance of the turnover of hosting rights for the 2028 edition, which will be staged in Cebu. He said representatives from the Philippines will receive the Asian Beach Games flag in Sanya, signaling the country’s role as the next host.

Two-time Beach Games jiu-jitsu gold medalist Annie Ramirez will spearhead Team Philippines’ campaign, backed by the POC and the Philippine Sports Commission.

Key athletes to watch in Sanya

Another jiu-jitsu standout, Kaila Napolis, is also expected to deliver a strong showing, while the women’s beach volleyball squad will be led by Southeast Asian Games gold medalist Sunny Villapando.

Villapando will be joined by Sofiah Pagara, Khyle Progella, and Grydelle Matibag as the team looks to make an impact against Asia’s top pairs.

The Philippines will also field competitive lineups in basketball 3×3 and triathlon. Raven Alcoseba and Erika Burgos will lead the women’s triathlon team, while Andrew Remolino, Inaki Lorbes, and Matthew Hermosa banner the men’s side.

Several of these athletes, including Alcoseba, Remolino, Lorbes, and Hermosa, previously secured medals in the Southeast Asian Games, boosting confidence heading into the regional competition.

Cebu hosting adds extra motivation

Tolentino acknowledged that predicting the country’s medal haul remains challenging, given the long gap since the last edition in 2016 held in Da Nang, Vietnam.

He said the Philippines remains competitive in multiple sports, including jiu-jitsu, beach volleyball, handball, wrestling, and triathlon.

A total of 45 national Olympic committees under the Olympic Council of Asia are expected to participate, along with invited teams from Australia, Solomon Islands, Tahiti, and New Zealand.

The Philippines has accumulated five gold, 10 silver, and 35 bronze medals in Asian Beach Games history, and the upcoming edition presents an opportunity to improve that tally.

With Cebu set to host in 2028, Team Philippines carries not only medal aspirations but also the responsibility of building momentum for the country’s upcoming turn on the continental stage.