Sampaguita-inspired torch ready for 30th SEA Games

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT –– The Philippine South East Asian Games Organizing Committee (Phisgoc) on Friday announced that the official torch to be used in the upcoming 30th Southeast Asia (SEA) Games was finished and has been tested in time for the regional sports events in November.

In a statement, Phisgoc said the torch’s design pays tribute to the country’s national flower, the sampaguita, and portrays other national symbols.

According to Phisgoc, the torch was designed by renowned metal sculptor Daniel dela Cruz, who is known for his unique style of metalworking, a technique of combining different metals to form highly intricate and expressive works of art.

Ramon Suzara, Phisgoc’s chief operating officer, said the torch reflects “the Philippines’ goal of lighting the way towards a higher level of organizing the biennial games which is on its 30th year.”

“The torch’s design itself is representative of our culture of excellence and our desire for unity among the member states of Asean (Association of Southeast Asian Nations),” said Suzara.

Phisgoc said the torch’s design is also composed of an eight-rayed golden sun that symbolizes unity, sovereignty, social equality, and independence.

“The sun with its eight rays is reflective of the Philippine flag representing the first eight provinces of the country that rose up in insurrection against Spain: Manila, Bulacan, Pampanga, Nueva Ecija, Tarlac, Laguna, Batangas, and Cavite,” Phisgoc said.

The multi-sports event will be held from November 30 to December 11 in its main hub here and in other venues in the country.

Part of the opening ceremony is the long relay of runners carrying torches to convey the flame to the site of the games. /lzb