The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
By Robert Andaya
BANGKOK, Thailand — The Filipino athletes will be the center of attention when the Philippines takes part in the opening ceremonies of the 33rd Southeast Asian Games at the Rajamangala National Stadium here Tuesday.
This was stressed by Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino during an interview with Manila-based sportswriters after attending the SEA Games Federation (SEAG) Council meeting at the Four Wings Hotel here.
“Time nila yan, para sa kanila (yung opening ceremonies).” said Tolentino.
Tolentino, however, said 61-member athletics team, led by two-time Olympian pole vaulter EJ Obiena, will miss the opening ceremonies, including the parade
“Their king (King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua, also known as Rama X) will attend the opening ceremonies, and the security is so tight that the military and police might not be able to handle it. The Royal Guards will handle the extremely tight security. There were a few hours before opening, and there were lockdowns, including at airports. “Our athletes will arrive in the afternoon and be in a kind of lockdown there for a few hours,” said Tolentino
But the country’s flag bearers — tennis superstar Alex Eala and volleyball star Bryan Bagunas of Alas Pilipinas will be there.
The two athletes were able to fly in to Bangkok on Monday just in time for the colorful opening rites.
“Ngayon ang dating ni Alex at ni Bryan,” said Tolentino, adding some 140 athletes will be marching for Team Philippines– only a portion of the country’s record-breaking 1,600-strong contingent.
Several sports officials will also be filling in some spots left by the other athletes who will not be able to make it in time.
The opening ceremonies will be participated in by top athletes from member-countries.
Based on reports, the opening ceremony will showcase the cultural heritage and artistic beauty of the host nation Thailand.
The program will begin at 6 p.m (Bangkok time).