The Philippines isn’t just heading to the 2026 Asian Games hoping to compete—it is chasing history.
With a star-studded roster led by Olympic champion Carlos Yulo, world-class pole vaulter EJ Obiena, rising tennis sensation Alex Eala, and boxing powerhouse Eumir Marcial, Philippine chef de mission Richard Lim believes the country’s medal campaign in Nagoya, Japan could eclipse its memorable four-gold performance from the previous Asian Games.
For Lim, the optimism isn’t wishful thinking—it is backed by the caliber of athletes carrying the Philippine flag.
“We have our star players in Carlos Yulo, our pole vault ace EJ Obiena, and Alex Eala,” Lim said during an interview on Power and Play hosted by Noli Eala. “I believe we can even surpass our recent gold haul.”
The confidence stems from more than just a handful of marquee names.
Lim pointed to the Philippines’ growing strength across multiple sports, with Gilas Pilipinas expected to contend in both the traditional 5-on-5 and fast-paced 3×3 basketball tournaments. He also highlighted weightlifting, martial arts, and jiu-jitsu as disciplines capable of delivering podium finishes.
Instead of relying on one or two standout athletes, the country enters this year’s Games with several legitimate gold-medal threats spread across different events.
The Philippine delegation will send 443 athletes to the Asian Games, which will be staged in Nagoya, Japan from September 19 to October 4.
The benchmark to beat remains the country’s impressive campaign at the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Games, where the Philippines captured four gold medals courtesy of Obiena, Annie Ramirez, Meggie Ochoa, and the Gilas Pilipinas men’s basketball team. The delegation also collected two silver medals and 12 bronzes.
Lim believes this year’s squad is even better equipped for the challenge.
Many of the athletes have already proven themselves on the international stage, winning medals in the Southeast Asian Games and continental championships. That experience, he said, gives the team the confidence and maturity needed to battle Asia’s sporting giants.
With established champions defending their status and emerging stars eager to make their mark, the Philippines enters Nagoya carrying more than just expectations—it carries a realistic shot at delivering one of its most successful Asian Games campaigns in history.