PPC eyes strong medal run for 216-strong Philippine delegation at ASEAN Para Games 2026

The Philippines is set to compete in the 13th edition of the ASEAN Para Games, scheduled from January 20 to 26 in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, sending a 216-strong delegation of Paralympic athletes for the region’s premier para-sports event.

Philippines chief of mission Goody Custodio, who also serves as secretary general of the Philippine Paralympic Committee (PPC), expressed confidence in the country’s chances, citing the dedication and discipline of the athletes in the lead-up to the competition.

Custodio revealed that despite the holiday season, the Philippine Paralympic team continued their training, a testament to their passion and commitment.

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“Well, they are excited and ready because after this holiday season or Christmas season, they went back to their training. They did not maximize the holidays. Same goes for the athletes. I’m happy that they are all in high spirits. We have 216 athletes competing in the ASEAN Para Games in Thailand on January 20,” Custodio said in a media interaction.

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Two-time Paralympic wheelchair racer Jerrold Mangliwan will carry the Philippine flag during the opening ceremony at Chatchai Hall. Mangliwan is expected to be among the top medal contenders, alongside swimmers Angel Otom and Gary Bejino, as well as chess masters Cheyzer Mendoza and Darrey Bernardo, who have consistently performed at the highest level in their respective sports.

Team Philippines comes into the 2025 edition with a strong track record. At the 2023 ASEAN Para Games, the country finished fifth overall, amassing 33 golds, 33 silvers, and 50 bronzes for a total of 116 medals. Custodio and PPC president Michael Barredo remain optimistic that this year’s contingent can surpass that achievement, even with the emergence of younger and highly competitive athletes from neighboring countries.

“As I remember, before Christmas break, we had a meeting with coaches together with Sir Mike Barredo. Sir Mike asked for their forecasted medals for ASEAN in Thailand. The results are good. Even if we think that the competition has changed and there are many new and young athletes, the coaches’ forecasts are still good. So I guess we can do well this time,” Custodio added.

With a mix of experienced medalists and promising young talent, Team Philippines is aiming not only to challenge for podium finishes but also to inspire the next generation of para-athletes across the country. Their preparation, discipline, and determination set the stage for an exciting and competitive ASEAN Para Games, and the nation will be eagerly watching as these athletes showcase their skills, resilience, and sportsmanship on the international stage.

The upcoming Games in Thailand offer a platform not just for medals but for representation, empowerment, and growth of para-sports in the Philippines. As the athletes take the field, the country’s hopes rest on their hard work and dedication, with expectations high that Team Philippines will deliver a performance that honors their training and continues the nation’s proud legacy in regional para-sport competitions.

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