THE Philippines’ campaign at the 18th Asian Games gets under way with the official opening of the quadrennial sporting spectacle this weekend in Jakarta, Indonesia.
Bannered by 272 athletes competing in 35 categories, Team Philippines is angling to improve on its 22nd place finish in the 2014 Games where it only had one gold to show for on top of three silver and 11 bronze medals.
Actor-athlete-public official Richard Gomez is the chief-de-mission of the country to the Games with Filipino-American National Basketball Association player Jordan Clarkson as the flag bearer.
Among the categories the Philippines is set to compete in are archery, athletics, basketball, bowling, boxing, cycling, equestrian, fencing, gymnastics, golf, judo, jiu-jitsu, karate, sailing, softball, sepak takraw, shooting, soft tennis, sport climbing, swimming, table tennis, taekwondo, tennis, triathlon, volleyball, weightlifting, wrestling, and wushu.
To inspire the athletes further, the government has pledged cash incentives for those who will bring home medals from the Games.
A P2-million incentive will be given for every gold won, P1 million for silver, and P400,000 for bronze.
The Philippine Olympic Committee has also pledge to hand out additional cash incentives for medal winners.
In the send-off in Malacañang early this week, President Rodrigo R. Duterte encouraged the Filipino athletes to give their best and champion fair play each time.
“Fight not only for yourselves but also for your families and most of all, our country. I’m proud of you,” said Mr. Duterte at the send-off.
“Your presence here is a testament to the indomitable Filipino spirit. I join the Filipino people in wishing you all the best as you hold the values of integrity, resilience and also sportsmanship in your pursuit of the gold,” he added.
Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Butch Ramirez also wished the athletes a good campaign at the Asian Games.
“There are different faces of victory. All we expect is for the athletes to do their best and play fair and square. That in itself is already a victory for us,” Mr. Ramirez said.
In the 2014 Games in Incheon, South Korea, BMX rider Daniel Caluag was the lone gold medallist from the Philippines.
He is set to defend his title in Indonesia.
The 18th Asian Games will run from Aug. 18 to Sept. 2. — Michael Angelo S. Murillo

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