Nakhon ratchasima: The Philippines is set to achieve its best finish in the ASEAN Para Games, following an impressive haul of gold medals over the weekend in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand. The country currently stands fourth with a medal tally of 38 golds, 31 silvers, and 47 bronzes, surpassing its previous record of 34-33-50 from the Cambodia 2023 Games.
According to Philippines News Agency, athletics standout Cyril Ongcoy claimed his second gold medal in the men's 5000-m T12 event with a time of 17 minutes and 32.19 seconds. This victory follows his earlier triumph in the men's 1500-meter T12 event, where he set a new meet record. Ongcoy expressed his determination in a news release, stating, 'I've long been saying that this is my favorite event. I knew I won't lose.'
Cleford Trocino also made significant contributions by winning the men's 800m T52 gold, while team captain Jerrold Mangliwan secured the silver. Gary Bejino added to the tally with his fourth gold medal in the men's 100m freestyle S6.
The Filipino contingent anticipates more medals as they compete in the men's wheelchair basketball final against host Thailand and the chess team's Blitz category. Meanwhile, Thailand is on track to dominate the Games with 165 golds, 151 silvers, and 146 bronzes. Indonesia, the previous overall champion, follows in second place, trailed by Malaysia, Vietnam, and other ASEAN nations.
In individual events, Thailand's Ekkaphan Songwichean and several other athletes secured multiple golds, showcasing the host nation's strength. Filipino swimmer Angel Otom also shone brightly, capturing her fifth gold in the 50m freestyle S4-S5 event and surpassing her previous achievements from Cambodia.
The games have highlighted the dedication and competitive spirit of athletes across Southeast Asia, with the Philippines marking a significant milestone in its ASEAN Para Games history.
