Kimberly Anne Custodio Strikes Gold in SEA Games Debut
Kimberly Anne Custodio Strikes Gold in SEA Games Debut
Jiu-jitsu world champion Kimberly Anne Custodio has given the Philippines another massive win — capturing the gold medal in the women’s ne-waza 48kg division at the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Thailand.
This marks a golden SEA Games debut for Custodio, who dominated her division with world-class grappling, poise under pressure, and elite experience. Fresh off winning her third world title last November, also in Thailand, Custodio carried that momentum straight into the regional games.
Her performance showcased not just technique, but complete control — neutralizing opponents with precision transitions, tight grips, and ground mastery. The victory further cements her status as one of the Philippines’ most decorated and consistent international jiu-jitsu athletes.
Custodio’s triumph adds to the growing medal tally and injects even more momentum into Team Philippines’ campaign in Bangkok.
For a champion who keeps delivering gold after gold, this SEA Games debut is not a statement — it’s a reminder:
Kimberly Anne Custodio is built for the big stage.
And she delivers when it matters most.
Justin Kobe Macario Delivers First Gold for the Philippines at Thailand SEA Games
The Philippines is officially on the medal board — and it’s GOLD thanks to taekwondo star Justin Kobe Macario, who secured the country’s first top podium finish at the 2025 Thailand SEA Games.
Competing in the men’s individual freestyle poomsae event, Macario dazzled the judges with explosive flips, sharp techniques, and precision, scoring 8.200 points to dominate the field at Fashion Island Shopping Mall in Bangkok.
Macario shared how emotional the moment was, saying he didn’t even expect to bring home the first gold for the Philippines.
He thanked his long-time coaches, Rani Ortega and Jordan Dominguez, for preparing him, adding that his victory is a testimony of both discipline and God’s faithfulness.
The young champion also reflected on the sacrifices behind this moment — missing the athletes’ parade, long hours of training, and pushing through fatigue — all to give the Philippines a strong start in the regional meet.
Macario is no stranger to success, having previously won silver and bronze in poomsae at the 2021 and 2023 SEA Games, plus additional medals in the Asian Championships and World Championships. But this gold marks a new milestone in his career.
Thailand’s Kodleakw Achariyra secured silver with 8.100 points, while Malaysia’s Ken Hwan Chin took bronze with 7.740.
With this victory, the Philippines claims its first gold medal of the Games — and momentum is officially building for Team Philippines.
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Alex Eala Leads the Philippines in Bangkok — STAR POWER! 🇵🇭🔥
Alex Eala Leads Philippine Star Power at SEA Games 2025
Team Philippines is marching into the 33rd Southeast Asian Games with confidence, pride, and undeniable star power — led by tennis sensation Alex Eala, who has quickly become one of the biggest names in international sports.
At the opening rites of the SEA Games in Bangkok, Eala and volleyball standout Bryan Bagunas will serve as the country’s official flag-bearers — symbolizing more than just athletic representation, but the heart, excellence, and rising influence of Filipino athletes on the world stage.
Eala lands in Bangkok after a historic 2025 season that propelled her into the global spotlight. From defeating former Grand Slam champions to her breakthrough US Open win and her steady climb into the world’s Top 50, Eala has become one of the most recognizable young athletes in Asia.
Behind her is a powerful roster of Filipino stars ready to shine:
EJ Obiena, the king of Asian pole vault, returns as a top gold medal favorite
Boxing champions Nesthy Petecio, Aira Villegas, and Eumir Marcial carry strong podium chances
Gilas Pilipinas, defending 5×5 champions, brace for tough battles but remain gold contenders
Philippine volleyball teams seek resurgence with stronger lineups and growing fan support
Carlos Yulo, two-time Olympian, anchors PH gymnastics despite skipping the regional meet
From veterans to rising stars, Team Philippines is entering Thailand with depth, discipline, and determination — ready to compete, inspire, and deliver medals for the country.
This year’s SEA Games isn’t just about competition.
It’s about a new era of Filipino sports excellence — and Alex Eala is proudly carrying that torch.
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Alyssa Solomon Joins Alas Pilipinas for Final SEA Games Buildup
With the 33rd Southeast Asian Games fast approaching, Alas Pilipinas just received a major boost.
Star opposite spiker Alyssa Solomon has officially joined the national team’s training sessions after flying home from Japan, where she’s currently competing in the SV.League with Osaka Marvelous.
Despite juggling commitments abroad, Solomon made time to reinforce the national program — a huge sign of commitment and leadership as the women’s squad prepares for Thailand this December.
Alas Pilipinas coach Jorge Souza De Brito expressed optimism, saying that despite limited preparation time, the team is hungrier than ever to break the Philippines’ 20-year medal drought in women’s volleyball.
Joining Solomon in the pool are several standouts:
• Bella Belen
• Leila Cruz
• Vanie Gandler
• Dawn Catindig
• Jia De Guzman
• Eya Laure
• Maddie Madayag
• UAAP phenoms like Angel Canino, Shaina Nitura, and Amie Provido
While PVL players are still locked into club duties, they will be free to fully join training after their teams wrap up the semifinals and finals this week.
Despite the challenges, the squad remains determined.
Thailand and Vietnam remain the biggest hurdles — but with Solomon in camp, the firepower and morale of the team just shot up.
Alas Pilipinas will open its SEA Games campaign on December 11 vs Thailand, then face Singapore on December 12 at Huamark Indoor Stadium in Bangkok.
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