26th SEA Games: Team Philippines in high spirits despite setbacks by U23 squad
A loss to Timor Leste in men's football is no reason for Team Philippines to sulk and lose its focus in the 26th Southeast Asian Games. This was according to Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Ritchie Garcia as he assured Filipino athletes in the other sports are all prepared for the Games Indonesia is hosting beginning Friday and ends on November 22. "Although we've had some bad news in football, this shouldn't dampen our spirits," Garcia said. The Philippine Under-23 Junior Azkals, whose chemistry was suspect even before the team flew to Indonesia last week, lost to Vietnam (3-1) in its opening Group B assignment last week. Apprehensions were raised against the Junior Azkals' chances against a Timor Leste team that like the Philippines, is backstopped by European-bred and trained players. The result was a 2-1 loss for the Philippine side that dampened its bid for a semifinal berth in the competitions being held in Jakarta. Nevertheless, Garcia said the target remains—70 gold medals and a top-three finish. "Overall, our athletes are in high spirits and with our support, I'm sure they will perform to expectations." "I still believe our target of 70 gold medals is achievable. With the high spirits of the athletes and the enthusiasm they showed during the send-off rites, it's not that far-fetched for us to be able to get 70 gold medals," Garcia added. The Philippines will be sending 747 athletes in the Games Indonesia hosted the last time in 1997. And each and everyone of them is tasked to do better than in Laos two years ago where—although the sports (and events) were less than those offered in Indonesia—the country settled for a measly 38 gold medals for sixth overall. The Philippines topped the medal race when it hosted the Games in 2005. "I want a more improved performance for our national players and I'm sure, deep inside they know they have to perform. And I know they can deliver, perform to their utmost capacity," said Garcia. Boxing, taekwondo, billiards, basketball, softball, baseball, wushu, athletics, swimming, cycling, judo, chess, tennis, golf and bowling are expected to deliver the mints for Team Philippines in Indonesia. — JVP, GMA News