PHILIPPINE chef de mission for the upcoming Asian Games Richard Lim expressed optimism that the country can match or even surpass its 4-gold haul in the last edition of the regional event in China back in 2023.
Lim, who also serves as the Karate Pilipinas Sports Federation Inc. president, said the aforementioned goal is realistic especially with top bets in gymnast Carlos Yulo, pole vaulter EJ Obiena, boxer Eumir Marcial, and Alex Eala competing and leading the country's 443-athlete delegation in this year's Asiad in Nagoya, Japan.
The tournament will run from Sept. 19 to Oct. 4.
"For my assessment, it will be possible since we have our star players in Carlos Yulo, our pole vault ace (EJ Obiena) and your niece Alex (Eala)," Lim said to Alex's uncle Noli Eala in his Power and Play program Saturday morning.
"Of course in basketball, we have a very good chance on 5-on-5 and 3x3, weightlifting, martial arts, jiu-jitsu is a strong asset of our Philippine team. I think we can surpass our recent gold haul and we're positive about it.
Other than the four golds won by Obiena, Annie Ramirez, Meggie Ochoa, and Gilas Pilipinas men's basketball team, the Philippines snared two silvers and 12 bronzes in the 2023 Asian Games edition.
Lim said that the Filipino athletes competing for this Asian Games are battle-tested, having won before in the Southeast Asian Games and the continental championships of their respective sports.
"Some sports have qualifying standards for the Asian Games. Our standard is that you should have won at least a gold or a silver medal at the SEA Games and also have medals in the continental championship," said Lim.
"Basically, there are no first-timers here. Everyone on this team is experienced and has already won in their respective events. No one is here just for the ride.
"President Bambol (Tolentino) doesn't want athletes who are here merely for the experience. They have already been given the opportunity to prove themselves, so this is it—this is the big stage and they have to perform well. Everyone who made the team has already proven themselves by winning before."
Lim said the 443 Filipino-athlete delegation will compete across 43 to 44 sports, with the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) working hand-in-hand to support them.
"With regards to PSC, chairman "Pato" (Patrick Gregorio) has been very helpful. We know for the first time that PSC and POC are really working hand-in-hand," said Lim.
"Of course, we have to cut costs. We don't have vacationers here. Only those who deserve will go."
