19 Sep Team Philippines proudly marches at the 20th Asian Games opening
The 20th Asian Games officially opened Saturday at the Mizuho Park Athletic Stadium in Nagoya, Japan, with Team Philippines joining athletes from across Asia for the opening ceremony.
The festivities began with the arrival of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako, Crown Prince Akishino and Crown Princess Kiko, OCA President Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, and IOC President Kirsty Coventry.
The stadium then came alive with performances combining music, movement, Japanese culture, and technology before the Parade of Nations began.
Aira Villegas and Albert Ian Delos Santos led Team Pilipinas as flagbearers, proudly carrying the Philippine flag as the delegation made its way around the stadium.
The Filipino athletes also stood out in their “Malaya” ceremonial outfits, designed by Filipino designer Francis Libiran. The barong-inspired look gave Team Philippines a distinctly identity as the delegation took its place among athletes from across Asia.
Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games Organizing Committee President Hideaki Ohmura and OCA President Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani then delivered their messages. In his address, Sheikh Joaan said, “Tonight, the eyes of Asia, and much of the world, turn to Japan.”
Emperor Naruhito then officially declared the 20th Asian Games open.
Athletes and judges took their respective oaths, pledging to uphold fair play, respect, and sportsmanship throughout the competition.
The ceremony continued with performances highlighting Japanese tradition and Nagoya culture, bringing together elements of heritage and modern technology before the lighting of the Asian Games cauldron.
For Team Philippines, the ceremony marked the delegation’s first official appearance together inside the host stadium—carrying the Philippine flag, wearing the colors and designs that represent home, and standing alongside the rest of Asia.
The opening ceremony is now behind us.
Now, it is time to make the nation proud. Laban, Pilipinas! 🇵🇭