Thailand, Indonesia ready to take over 2019 SEA Games

Either Thailand or Indonesia could take over the 2019 hosting of the 30th Southeast Asian Games.

Philippine Olympic Committee secretary general Steve Hontiveros said these countries have shown interest after the Philippine government decided to give it up due to the raging conflict in Marawi City in Lanao del Sur.

According to Hontiveros, there’s still hope for the Manila hosting to become a reality as the POC convenes its general assembly of national sports associations tomorrow at Wack Wack Golf and Country Club.

“There’s still a chance provided that President Duterte will approve it,” said Hontiveros. “The next best move for the POC is to convene the general assembly and make a formal appeal to the President.”

Hontiveros said Thailand and Indonesia have to forward their respective bids to the SEA Games Federation prior to the closing ceremony of the 29th edition of the biennial meet in Kuala Lumpur on Aug. 30.

Thailand last hosted the SEA Games in 2007 while Indonesia, where next year’s Asian Games will be held, organized the Games in 2011.