In a landmark event for Philippine sports, the country has officially secured the hosting rights for the 7th Asian Beach Games (ABG) in 2028, which will be held in Cebu. The agreement was signed by Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) President Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino and Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) President Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani during a ceremony in Sanya, China.
Two Major Events for the Philippines
Alongside the Asian Beach Games, the contract also includes the hosting of the Southeast Asian Plus Youth Games in December 2027. Tolentino expressed excitement about both events, stating, “We’re very excited for our country to host two big events — the Southeast Asian Plus Youth Games next year in December, then, three months later, the Asian Beach Games in March 2028.” He noted that it has been a long time since the Philippines hosted OCA events and that these align with the government's sports tourism program.
Preparations Underway
Preparations for both events have already started, with official logos and mascots set to be unveiled in June. Tolentino emphasized the significance of hosting these games, which are supported by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) under Chairperson Patrick “Pato” Gregorio. The events are part of the National Sports Tourism Inter-Agency Committee's mandate.
Tolentino highlighted that the SEA Plus Youth Games, an Under-16 event, will attract not only Southeast Asian countries but also others from Central Asia, including Bahrain, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. He added, “In December next year, youth athletes will enjoy Manila with their parents because it will be an Under-16 event.” Meanwhile, the Asian Beach Games will further solidify the Philippines’ status as a country that excels in beach sports, as evidenced by its third-place finish in the current games in Sanya.
