Duterte formally opens 2019 SEA Games

Brunei’s Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, left, sits beside Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte during the opening ceremony of the 30th South East Asian Games at the Philippine Arena, Bulacan province, northern Philippines on Saturday, Nov. 30, 2019. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila)

MANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte has formally opened the 30th Southeast Asian Games, which is hosted by the Philippines.

“I declare open the Southeast Asian Games for the 30th time. Celebrating the games of Southeast Asia. Mabuhay kayong lahat,” Duterte said during the opening ceremony at Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan on Saturday.

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In a quick speech, House Speaker Alan Cayetano emphasized the passionate teamwork of Southeast Asian countries. He also cheered for Filipino athletes as they compete for the games.

“We look at our athletes and we look at the truth we see strength. We see wisdom we look at these young people… in them we see passion sacrifice, discipline teamwork and respect,” Cayetano, chairman of the Philippine Southeast Asian Games Organizing Committee (Phisgoc) said.

“In Southeast Asia, we are passionate we are ready to make sacrifices. We are believers in teamwork,” he added.

Brunei’s Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah also joined Duterte in opening ceremonies of the SEA Games to support Brunei’s athletes.

The SEA Games will be held from Nov. 30 to Dec. 11.