Marcos meets with Team Philippines ahead of SEA Games

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos, Jr. on Monday met with the athletes of Team Philippines competing in the 2023 Southeast Asian Games in Phnom Penh, Cambodia in May.

In a send-off ceremony held at the Philippine International Convention Center, Marcos recognized the achievements of sportspersons who brought home success from international competitions.

"Ang ating mga champion, ang mga nag-uuwi ng medalya at tropeo ay nagdadala ng kasiyahan at maipagmamalaki ng madla na 'Kami ay Pilipino,'" Marcos said.

("Our champions, those who brought home medals and trophies bring happiness and the people can be proud in saying 'We are FIlipinos.'")

"Many of our great athletes who have made their name in the international stage have brought with them the Philippines, and the honor that they have gained by their sacrifice, perseverance, and success, is also given to the Philippines and every single Filipino feels it," he added.

With more than 800 athletes representing the country in the biennial meet, Marcos said the Filipinos will back them in their journey and assured the athletes of the government's support in their respective campaigns.

"We all want to do everything that we can do to make you as successful as you possibly can in your chosen events," he added.

Aside from Marcos, present in the send-off ceremony were Philippine Sports Commission chair Richard Bachmann, Philippine Olympic Committee Abraham Tolentino, and officials of National Sports Associations.

Team Philippines will compete in more than 600 events in 38 sports in the upcoming biennial meet which will open on May 5 and end on May 17.

—JMB, GMA Integrated News