PSC chair Bachmann aims for better results, POC chief Tolentino optimistic for Team Philippines in Cambodia SEA Games

Philippine sports officials are hoping for the best as Team Philippines heads to the 2023 Southeast Asian Games in Phnom Penh, Cambodia in May.

Philippine Sports Commission chairman Richard Bachmann tempered his expectations as there are less sports in the upcoming biennial meet. However, he aims to have better results for this year's edition of the SEA Games.

During the SEA Games in Hanoi last year, the Philippines placed fourth with 52 golds, 70 silvers, and 105 bronzes for a total of 227 medals.

"Let's put it this way: Always better than last year," Bachmann said when asked about his projection for the upcoming regional meet. "That's my goal, to do better last year. I know there's a lot of sports that weren't included but hopefully we can do better."

IN PHOTOS: His Excellency President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. graces the send off ceremony for the Team Philippines who will compete in the 2023 Southeast Asian Games in Phnom Penh, Cambodia on May 5-17, 2023.#BidaAngBayaningManlalaro#SerbisyongPSC pic.twitter.com/MGvpLnYzEm

— Philippine Sports Commission (@psc_gov) April 24, 2023

The Philippines will compete in more than 600 events in 38 sports in the Cambodian edition, compared to 530 events in 56 sports in 2019 in the country, and 526 events with 40 sports in Hanoi.

Despite fewer sports and the absence of athletes such as Hidilyn Diaz (weightlifting) and Eumir Marcial (boxing), Bachmann hopes other athletes will step up to the plate.

"It's a challenge. It's up to the other athletes to step up and hopefully [get more] for the Philippines."

POC president Abraham "Bambol" Tolentino, meanwhile, said there might be "surprises" in the upcoming SEA Games, but is now more optimistic in the campaign because of the bigger number of athletes competing.

"Medyo nagbago kasi last SEA Games, pinadala natin 600 plus, ngayon pinadala natin 800 plus. Factor 'yun."

("It changed a little because last SEA Games, we sent 600 plus but now we're sending 800 plus. That's a factor.")

The Cambodia SEA Games will be held on May 5 to 17.

—JMB, GMA Integrated News