The year 2025 was a historic one for Philippine sports. Filipino athletes dominated the SEA Games and earned recognition on the global stage, proving that the country’s talent goes beyond regional competitions. From record-breaking golds to first-time team victories, these champions not only brought home medals but also set the stage for an exciting 2026.
A Year of Big Wins
Filipino athletes shone at the 33rd Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Thailand, winning 277 medals — including 50 golds, 73 silvers, and 154 bronzes, helping the country finish sixth overall.
Some of the biggest stars were Alex Eala, who won gold in women’s singles tennis for the first time in 26 years, and EJ Obiena, who captured his fourth SEA Games gold in pole vault. Other medalists included Kayla Sanchez in swimming, Carlos Yulo in gymnastics, and rising stars like Naomi Marjorie Cesar and Justin Kobe Macario.
Filipino teams also stood out. The Philippine Women’s Football Team won the country’s first-ever SEA Games gold in women’s football. Beach volleyball teams beat tough rivals, and the softball squads continued to dominate. These wins show the Philippines has talent across many sports.
Honoring the Champions
The athletes’ achievements were officially recognized in January 2026. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led the “Parangal at Pasasalamat sa mga Bayaning Atleta” ceremony in Manila. Gold medalists received P300,000, silver winners P150,000, and bronze medalists P60,000 each, on top of rewards from the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). Additionally, medalists also earned Presidential Citations.
Athletes highlighted included Alex Eala, EJ Obiena, and the Women’s Football Team. Veterans like Agatha Wong, with six SEA Games golds in wushu, and Eumir Marcial, a five-time boxing gold medalist, were also recognized. The ceremony showed the government’s commitment to supporting athletes and growing Philippine sports.
2026, Ready To Be Claimed
The victories of 2025 set the stage for an exciting 2026. Fans can look forward to Alex Eala and EJ Obiena competing in international tournaments, new rising stars making their mark, and more historic wins across athletics, swimming, gymnastics, and team sports. With strong government support and growing national pride, the Philippines is poised to make even bigger waves on the global sports stage, inspiring a new generation of athletes.
As 2026 unfolds, all eyes are on these champions, proving that Philippine sports is ready for even bigger achievements.
