AFP athletes to prop country’s SEAG bid

LESS than a fourth of the Philippine delegation to the 27th Southeast Asian Games in Burma (Myanmar) comes from the Armed Forces of the Philippines and yet these military athletes are projected to corner most of the medals for the country.

A total of 32 athletes detailed in the AFP will see action in 16 sports during the Dec. 11 to 22 meet in Burma, led by five-time steeplechase champion Rene Herrera, boxer Rey Saludar and cycling track king Alfie Catalan.

Grandmaster Joey Antonio, an Army sergeant, is also a strong medal contender as well as wrestlers Margarito Angana Jr. and flag-bearer Jason Balabal, and hammer thrower Arniel Ferrera, an Air Force sergeant.

“They are expected to contribute heavily in the country’s bid to win gold medals,” said Philippine chef de mission Jeff Tamayo.

There are 207 Filipino athletes set to compete in 25 sports with two more entries from wushu expected to join the delegation.