Tolentino sees no problem committing long-term for 2033 SEA Games

Bambol Tolentino remains POC chief. INQUIRER PHOTO/Tristan Tamayo

Following the success of its grand 2019 hosting of the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, the Philippines will again take its turn in 11 years—half-a-cycle ahead of schedule—in its quest to win the overall title for just the third time.

And Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Bambol Tolentino swears this wasn’t done in haste, but rather “it’s the most logical thing to do.”

Tolentino even said that he actually wanted it sooner, only that Laos beat him to the draw for the 2031 rights.

“Our 2019 facilities are world-class, and in 10 years’ time, they will still be in great shape. Ideal for hosting,” Tolentino told the Inquirer over the phone. “So we won’t be having infrastructure concerns by the time 2033 comes. We won’t be cramming to finish our facilities.”

The Philippines won only its second overall title three years ago.

“Plus, we have young athletes now who are playing well and they will be ripe that time. We can give our countrymen a show once more,” he said.

With a previously unheard of 149 gold medals that went with 117 silvers and 121 bronzes, the Philippines ruled the 2019 edition with ease. That figure was erased a couple of months back by Vietnam, which amassed 205 gold, 125 silver and 116 bronze medals in Hanoi when it hosted.

The Vietnamese and Indonesians, Tolentino said, were also interested in the 2033 rights.

Tolentino said he will be securing a commitment from the government in the coming months to confirm the hosting and sees no problem with it.

“Who wouldn’t want to host the SEAG?” Tolentino asked. “It’s an absolute honor for every country.”

The Philippines first hosted in 1981, where it finished third, then 10 years later when it fell a gold medal short of tying Indonesia for No. 1.