Asian Games 2018 kicks off with explosive opening ceremony

The 18th Asian Games opened with a bang at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium (GBK) Stadium in Jakarta, Indonesia on Saturday evening.

Indonesian President Joko Widodo declared the Games open, which will be co-hosted by the cities of Jakarta, and Palembang on the island of Sumatra.

Thousands of athletes from 45 nations attended the opening, waving their countries' flags while wearing their traditional costumes.

Filipino athletes donned matching barongs and black jeans as Cleveland Cavaliers guard Jordan Clarkson led the march carrying the Philippine flag.

The delegations from each country marched across the massive ceremony stage, which was decorated to look like an island with grassy mountains and trees at the background.

Attendees, as well as spectators around the world, were treated to colorful performances by Indonesian artists who gave the world a glimpse of their culture. — Jessica Bartolome/DVM, GMA News