The Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) is “very impressed” with how the country has managed to host the ongoing SEA Games 2019 in an efficient manner – in fact, the council has also asked the Philippines to consider bidding for the hosting rights of “bigger events” like the 2030 Asian Games.
Manila Bulletin Wei shared his detailed observations during a press briefing at the World Trade Center, the media conference tackling topics ranging from the spectacular opening ceremony at the Philippine Arena last Saturday to the many little details such as the world-class facilities, guidebooks, traffic, venue and volunteer hospitality.
“The Philippine Arena is perhaps a unique arena in the world. We witnessed the enthusiasm of all athletes, and showed the excellent tradition of the SEA Games so far,” he said.
SEA Games Federation chairman Cito Dayrit, left, Olympic Council of Asia VP Wei Jizhong, POC president Bambol Tolentino and PHISGOC COO Tats Suzara, right. (Kristel Satumbaga)
“This means that Philippines is capable to organize bigger-scale Games.”
Wei cited the attitude of the Filipino people towards sports as among the major factors that impressed him. He shared that he attended the ice hockey event at the Mall of Asia Ice Rink and was surprised that the venue was packed with spectators even if the sport is not as popular as others like basketball.
Wei also said the glitches in the early days of the competition are normal, as other host nations have also experienced it.
Philippine Olympic Committee president Bambol Tolentino welcomed the idea, saying: “Wala namang masamang sumubok. I-evaluate pa nila yan.”
The next Asian Games hosts have already been named with Hangzhou, China hosting the 19th edition in 2022 and Nagoya, Japan hosting the 20th edition in 2026.
Vietnam, meanwhile, will host the 31st edition of the SEA Games in 2021.
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This article first appeared on Manila Bulletin.
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