And we’re only getting started

There is no denying that we Filipinos have the heart and drive to go after the things we want. With just a slight bias, we can say that we’re some of the most passionate people out there despite the hindrances we face. And nothing proves this more than when we shine on the international stage—with the 2017 SEA Games serving as no exception.

Marathon

Mary Joy Tabal was the first Filipino to bag a gold at the ongoing SEA Games in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The 4’11’’ Cebuana won the women’s marathon leg with a time of two hours, 48 minutes and 26 seconds. The icing on top of the cake was likely beating out her former tormentor, 2015 gold medalist Natthaya Thanaronnawat of Thailand.

“I don't want to let our country down,” she said. “On my mind I want to give the Filipinos what they're expecting from me.”

Track and Field

Nueva Ecija-local Aries Toledo prevailed in the decathlon event. He collected a total of 6,849 points and finished way ahead of his competitors. Thailand’s Suttisak Singkon was awarded silver after finishing with 6,678 points.

Meanwhile, Anthony Beram is taking home two gold medals for the Philippines thanks to his stints in the 200-meter and 400-meter runs. In doing so, Beram became the first Filipino to be a double gold-medalist. “[I’m] just trying my best,” he said, humbly. “I’m just happy I was able to get it done.”

Boxing

Eumir Felix Marcial is no stranger to the SEA Games ring as he won gold as a welterweight back in 2015. Now performing in the middleweight division, he dominated yet again and bagged the Philippines’ first boxing gold in this year’s boxing events.

Fil-British light-heavyweight John Marvin quickly followed with his own gold against his Malaysian opponent. The two boxers were only in the ring for 21 seconds until the referee stepped in and called off the match.

Ice Hockey

The Philippine Ice Hockey team went into their gold-medal event undefeated with a record of 3-0. However, their Thai competitors were boasting the same numbers. Nevertheless, the Philippine team came out on top with a 5-4 score.

Gymnastics

Reyland Capellan was the only Pinoy to score a gold in the floor gymnastic events at the 2017 Games this year. He finished with a strong 13.950 points despite an upset in the early part of his routine. “I’m so happy that I am able to contribute to the gold medal production of the Philippines,” he said.

We’re thrilled and proud that our athletes have been performing so well at the 2017 SEA Games—whether they’ve won the gold, bagged a silver, taken a bronze or simply participated.