THE SEA Games opening last November 30 at the Philippine Arena in Bulacan lived up or even exceeded expectations. As a Filipino, you can't just get enough of that proud moment in our nation's history.
One of the several highlights of the opening was the gathering of our very own sports legends on stage. Such a surreal sight to see Lydia de Vega, Akiko Thompson, Eric Buhain, Alvin Patrimonio, Bong Coo, Efren "Bata" Reyes, Onyok Velasco and Paeng Nepumoceno as flag bearers. These were sports heroes of our generation. We all grew up hearing and reading their names as they stamp their class in the world of sports en route to being recognized as our sports legends. Kudos to the organizers for considering them and giving younger Filipinos a chance to see these legends of Philippine sports. Their participation is a recognition of their significant contribution to Philippine sports.
As the first day of competitions began, Team Philippines started its gold rush, earning our first gold medals in wushu and triathlon. We ended the day of games almost surpassing our 2017 gold haul. We eventually surpassed it on the second day and hiked our total gold haul to 47 as of this writing. Some of the winners were rookies in SEA Games competitions. World champion Carlos Yulo (gymnastics) and Dabawenya Jezebel Morcillo (arnis) head this list alongside our 3x3 men's and women's teams.
Hosting the games and playing in front of the home crowd has done great wonders for Team Philippines in recent SEA Games. The 1981 edition saw the birth of the legend of Asia's fastest woman, Lydia de Vega. We finished third. In 1991, bannered by swimmers Eric Buhain and Akiko Thompson, we finished second and in 2005, our first over-all championship. Playing at home eases some of the pressure and stress of our athletes and lets them focus on their formulas for winning their events. Athletes don't have to travel in an unfamiliar place, adjust to the meals served, and other logistical details that can add to the stress of preparations.
"Alab ng puso, sa dibdib mo'y buhay.
Lupang hinirang, duyan ka ng magiting..."
This early, our heartfelt thanks and congratulations to everyone in the SEA Games.