SEAG Federation rallies behind Philippine hosting

CAPAS, Tarlac, Philippines –  The 11 member countries of the Southeast Asian Games Federation yesterday showed unequivocal support to the Philippines’ hosting of the 30th Southeast Asian Games during its meeting at the New Clark City here.

“There was unanimous show of support for the Philippines from members of the Federation,” said Philippine Olympic Committee and SEAGF president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, who presided over the meeting alongside executive committee chair Celso Dayrit.

Malaysian Olympic Committee president Mohamad Norza Zakaria showed understanding to the host considering this edition is the biggest ever with a record 56 events from the normal number of 36 biennially.

“As the immediate past host of the SEA Games, we understand what you are going through and we express full support for all your efforts especially as this is the biggest ever, with a record-breaking 56 sports,” said Zakaria.

Indonesian Olympic Committee chief Raja Sapta Oktohari also commended Tolentino.

“This hosting is historic and I commend my good friend president Tolentino for his pioneering effort in getting all these sports in the Philippine SEA Games,” said Oktohari.

The event officially opens today with an extravagant opening ceremony at the Philippine Arena in Bulacan.