The Philippines has rolled out a formidable 101-athlete contingent to compete in the 6th Asian Beach Games in Sanya, China, immediately making its presence felt with a strong victory in beach handball prior to the formal opening of this prestigious multi-sport regional event.
Leading the national delegation are decorated jujitsu standout Annie Ramirez and rising athlete Yman Xavier Baluyo, who were given the honor of carrying the Philippine flag during the parade of athletes.
Together, they headline a diverse squad competing across multiple beach disciplines, including 3×3 basketball, open water swimming, water polo, aquathlon, beach athletics, handball, kabaddi, football, volleyball, wrestling, dragon boat racing, sailing, sport climbing, and teqball, a fast-growing, football-based sport that combines football and table tennis, and played in a special curved table.
The campaign got off to a promising start even before the event officially started as the men’s beach handball team outplayed Hong Kong in straight sets, 20-18 and 28-16, delivering the country’s first win of the tournament.
Chef de mission Don Caringal welcomed the early success, noting that it sets a positive tone for the rest of the competition. He added that while it remains too early to predict overall results, expectations are high for several squads, particularly in combat sports and team events.
Meanwhile, Philippine Olympic Committee President Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino emphasized the broader significance of this year’s participation, describing the Games as a crucial step in the country’s buildup toward hosting the event in 2028. He pointed out that the experience gained in Sanya will help organizers and athletes alike prepare for a larger role on the continental stage.
With momentum on their side and valuable lessons ahead, Team Philippines is not only chasing podium finishes but also laying the groundwork for what it hopes will be a successful hosting of the Asian Beach Games.
The Asian Beach Games is a multi-sport regional event where athletes from Asia compete in beach and water sports, and is now held every two years from the previous four.