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When the Philippines hosted the recently concluded SEA Games, Chris Tiu is part of the country's delegation, not as an athlete but as a volunteer.

Chris, who retired from professional basketball this year, was appointed as the Organizing Committee's Deputy Director for Volunteers Program.

In a post on Instagram, he thanked everyone who volunteered in the event and revealed that he actually hesitated when he was first appointed.

"Truth be told, I was apprehensive to take on this task as the road seemed uncertain then. And to mobilise a volunteer workforce of 9,000 was just hard to imagine," Chris wrote in the caption alongside their photos during the event.

"But the team somehow did it, not without a number of setbacks and continuous problem-solving.

"Because of these, we are now wiser and tougher."

Chris also revealed that he didn't know how hard to organize an event, especially he's always on the other side as an athlete.

"As an athlete for many years, it is only now that I totally appreciate the work being done behind the scenes by organizing workforce/volunteers to make the experience of athletes, coaches and officials smooth and enjoyable," he added.

"All the sweat and tears behind those smiles that greet, I salute you all."

View this post on Instagram

What an incredible journey it has been, these past 5 months. It was daunting, to say the least, and perhaps one of the toughest tasks I've encountered. But the reward is priceless. I'm glad i heeded the call to serve as one of the volunteer leaders for the 2019 SEA Games. Truth be told, I was apprehensive to take on this task as the road seemed uncertain then. And to mobilise a volunteer workforce of 9,000 was just hard to imagine. But the team somehow did it, not without a number of setbacks and continuous problem-solving. Because of these , we are now wiser and tougher. As an athlete for many years, it is only now that I totally appreciate the work being done behind the scenes by organizing workforce/volunteers to make the experience of athletes, coaches and officials smooth and enjoyable. All the sweat and tears behind those smiles that greet, I salute you all. I thank my PHISGOC family and VP team for giving me this chance to serve our country. It is an honor to work with various leaders and young future leaders who I've learned from. Thank you for the memories and the new friendships. To our athletes, thank you and congratulations! Keep inspiring through your discipline, competitive drive and sportsmanlike behaviour. To those who supported us as well as those who challenged us, thank you for reminding us of our true purpose and to constantly pursue excellence. To our family and friends, thank you for your unwavering support and understanding. Thank you to our Lord for guiding us all throughout and protecting us all from any major accidents or sicknesses. To our fellow volunteers, I've heard only wonderful feedback from our guests , managers and spectators. Thank you for being excellent ambassadors of our country and showcasing the Filipino brand of service. Your commitment to serve and spirit of patriotism is inspiring! You made us all so proud!! Congratulations to you and congratulations to the Philippines 🇵🇭 I am one proud Filipino! ❤️ #WeWinAsOne #SeaGames2019 @2019seagamesvolunteers

A post shared by Chris Tiu (@chris_tiu17) on Dec 15, 2019 at 5:38am PST

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