There is a unanimous show of support for the Philippine hosting from members of the Southeast Asian Games Federation, which had its meeting on Friday immediately before the official start of the 30th edition of the Games.
POC and SEA Games Federation President Abraham “ Bambol” Tolentino presided over the meeting at the Quest Hotel with all 11 member countries represented, assisted by Executive Committee Chairman Celso Dayrit.
Malaysian NOC President Mohamad Norza Zakaria said: “As the immediate past host of the SEA Games, we understand what you are going through and we express full support for all your efforts especially as this is the biggest ever, with a record-breaking 56 sports.”
Normally, the games feature only about 36 or so disciplines.
Indonesian National Olympic Committee President Raja Sapta Oktohari echoed Zakaria’s statement saying “This hosting is historic and I commend my good friend President Tolentino for his pioneering effort in getting all these sports in the Philippine SEA GAMES.”
The Games will open Saturday evening with colorful ceremonies at the Philippine Arena in Bulacan.