“It’s a huge honor”: Annie Ramirez on being named Philippines flag bearer for 2026 Asian Beach Games

The Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) has confirmed that Team Philippines is fully prepared for its campaign in the sixth edition of the Asian Beach Games, set to take place from April 22 to 30 in Sanya, China. The continental multi-sport event will once again bring together elite athletes from across Asia in beach and coastal disciplines, with the Philippines fielding a sizeable and experienced delegation.

POC president Abraham Tolentino expressed confidence that the country’s preparations—both logistical and competitive—are firmly in place ahead of departure. The national contingent will feature 101 athletes competing across multiple sports, including beach volleyball, 3×3 basketball, triathlon, wrestling, handball, and jiu-jitsu, among others.

“Everything is ready. We have done our preparations, and the athletes are set to compete,” Tolentino said, underscoring the federation’s commitment to ensuring a smooth and competitive outing for Team Philippines in Sanya.

OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

Leading the Philippine campaign is decorated jiu-jitsu veteran Annie Ramirez, one of the most accomplished athletes in the delegation. A two-time Asian Beach Games gold medalist, Ramirez is expected to anchor the country’s jiu-jitsu campaign while also serving as one of the team’s flag bearers and senior leaders.

She will be joined by fellow jiu-jitsu standout Kaila Napolis, forming a strong core for the sport that has historically delivered some of the Philippines’ best performances in the Asian Beach Games. Their presence is expected to boost the country’s medal chances, particularly in combat sports where the Philippines has consistently excelled.

Ramirez expressed both pride and responsibility after being given one of the delegation’s leadership roles, emphasizing the significance of representing the country on a major international stage.

FLAG BEARERS 🇵🇭

LOOK: Jiu-jitsu athletes Annie Ramirez and Yman Xavier Baluyo will serve as flag bearers for the Philippine Team at the 6th Asian Beach Games in Sanya, China, set from April 22 to 30, 2026.

📸: Philippine Olympic Committee pic.twitter.com/EVSLHDSB1V

— GMA Sports (@gmasportsph) April 19, 2026

“It’s a huge honor to be named one of the flag bearers for the Philippines. At the same time, it comes with added responsibility and pressure, especially in a big multi-sport event like this. I’m proud to share this moment with Yman, who is one of our rising athletes, and I believe we both represent the future and strength of Philippine jiu-jitsu,” Ramirez said.

Now 35, Ramirez remains one of the country’s most reliable medal prospects. She further solidified her legacy after winning two gold medals at the JJIF World Championships last year, reinforcing her status as a world-class competitor in the discipline. Ahead of the Sanya Games, she has also transitioned to the 57kg division, a move that proved successful after she secured another gold medal last November in her new weight category.

Despite the challenges of adjusting to a new division and the absence of an overseas training camp, Ramirez emphasized that her preparation has remained disciplined and structured.

“My preparation has been consistent with how I approach my past competitions – staying disciplined with my training, strength and conditioning, and overall routine. The only difference this time is that I didn’t have an international training camp, but I made sure to maximize what I have locally and stay focused on my goals,” she added.

Historically, the Philippines has performed competitively in the Asian Beach Games, amassing five gold, 10 silver, and 35 bronze medals in previous editions. Combat sports, particularly jiu-jitsu, have consistently been among the country’s strongest medal sources, alongside emerging success in beach volleyball and other beach-based disciplines.

As Team Philippines departs for Sanya, expectations remain cautiously optimistic. While officials have avoided setting a specific medal target, the expanded and more seasoned roster is expected to improve on past performances. Beyond immediate results, the campaign is also seen as part of a longer-term build-up toward future international competitions, including the pathway to the 2028 Olympic cycle.

With a blend of veteran leaders and rising talents, the Philippine delegation aims not only to contend for medals but also to further establish its presence in Asia’s growing beach sports landscape.

👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and join the community of passionate sports fans.