Athletes treated to a spectacle as SEA Games 2019 officially ends

Athletes from the 11 countries participate in a parade of Athletes during the closing ceremonies of the 30th Southeast Asian Games.  INQUIRER/ MARIANNE BERMUDEZ

The curtains closed on the 30th Southeast Asian Games at New Clark Athletics Stadium in Capas, Tarlac Wednesday night, marking the end of what had become a show of force by the Philippine delegation.

The Philippines fulfilled its promise in delivering the overall title for the first time since it last hosted the regional meet in 2005 after finishing with 149 gold, 118 silver and 120 bronze medals.

Just like in the opening rites held at Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan, the athletes from the 11 participating nations were treated to a spectacle.

Fireworks display lit up the sky while Filipino-American artist apl.de.ap, who performed in the opening ceremony, returned to the stage, this time with the other members of The Black Eyed Peas will.i.am and Taboo for the closing act.

The athletes—medal winners or not—shared the spotlight but there were a few who stood out.

Fireworks at the closing ceremony of the 30th Southeast Asian Games. INQUIRER/ MARIANNE BERMUDEZ

Filipino surfer Roger Casogay, who won the gold in men’s longboard, was lauded for his heroism. The 25-year-old pride of La Union rescued Indonesian competitor Arip Nurhidayat from the giant waves at Monaliza Point in San Juan, La Union last Friday.

Casogay was also the Philippines’ flag-bearer at the parade of nations and athletes during the closing ceremony.

Swimming sensations Quah Zheng Wen of Singapore and Nguyen Thi Anh Vien of Vietnam were also hailed as the best male and female athlete, respectively in this SEA Games after both taking home six gold and two silver medals each.