PSC commissioner Ramon Fernandez upbeat on overall SEA Games crown

With the Philippines' stellar showing in the ongoing Southeast Asian Games, Philippine Sports Commission commissioner Ramon Fernandez is confident the country is right on track for its second overall crown in the biennial meet.

The last time the Philippines won the overall plum was in 2005 after garnering a 113-84-94 gold-silver-bronze medal haul for a total of 291 medals.

Currently, the country sits at first place behind an 89-67-65 tally for 221 medals in total.

"We're hoping that our athletes will continue to shine and perform well and we're also hoping na lumampas sa 2005 medal haul ('yong output this year) ," the former basketball superstar said in an interview on Super Radyo dzBB on Sunday.

Fernandez added that the PSC will continue its advocacy on focus sports, which he believes the country has potential to excel in.

"Pinu-push ko na talaga 'yon (focus sports) from the beginning pa lang. Mamili tayo ng focus sports that are individual weight category Olympic sports," he said.

Fernandez said sports such as boxing, taekwondo, karatedo, weight lifting, shooting, archery and gymnastics have better chances in international sports competitions.

He added that private sectors have been a big help for the PSC, especially when it comes to financial support.

"Definitely, mas malaking tulong sila para dito sa atin dahil talagang compared to other countries, maliit 'yong budget natin para sa sports so kailangan 'yong support ng private sectors," he said.

Fernandez also said despite the delay in some events due to Typhoon Tisoy last week, the multi-sporting event is now right on schedule.

The SEA Games closing ceremonies will be held on December 11 at the New Clark City. —Ma. Angelica Garcia/LBG, GMA News

FULL COVERAGE: 30TH SEA GAMES PHILIPPINES 2019