Pilipinas Sepak Takraw President Karen Caballero (2nd from left) talks about the hosting of the inaugural U19 Asian Championships during a press conference at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex on Wednesday (Feb. 25, 2026). With her (from left) are Philippine Sports Commission commissioner Walter Torres, chairperson John Patrick Gregorio and Asian Sepak Takraw Federation secretary general Muhammad Fariq. (PNA photo by Jean Malanum)
The Philippines is set to make history as it hosts the inaugural U19 Asian Sepak Takraw Championship from November 18 to 25 at the iconic Rizal Memorial Coliseum, marking a major milestone for the sport’s growth in the country and across the region.
More than 600 young athletes from an estimated 12 to 16 countries are expected to compete in the weeklong tournament, which will feature regu, quad, and mixed quadrant events. The championship brings together Asia’s rising sepak takraw talents, turning Manila into a showcase of athleticism, skill, and regional camaraderie.
Pilipinas Sepak Takraw president Karen Caballero said hosting the tournament is both an honor and a source of national pride, describing the event as “big and special” for the country. She made the remarks during a press conference held Wednesday at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.
Also in attendance were officials from the Philippine Sports Commission, led by chairperson John Patrick Gregorio and commissioner Walter Torres, along with Asian Sepak Takraw Federation deputy secretary general Muhammad Fariq.
Gregorio emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting international sporting events, saying any opportunity to promote sepak takraw should be fully embraced.
The PSC has been actively backing major global competitions hosted by the Philippines, including the FIFA Women’s Futsal World Cup, the FIVB Men’s Volleyball World Championships last year, and the WTA 125 Women’s Open tennis tournament held just last month.
For the Asian Sepak Takraw Federation, the Manila tournament represents more than just a championship. Fariq described the event as a launching pad for young athletes, calling it “the start of a career path for future superstars.”
With a historic venue, strong institutional backing, and a new generation of athletes taking center stage, the Philippines’ hosting of the first U19 Asian Sepak Takraw Championship signals a bold step forward for the sport in Asia.