Philippines Secures 9 Medals at the 2026 Asian Beach Games in Sanya, China
The Philippines concluded its participation in the 2026 Asian Beach Games, held in Sanya, China from April 22nd to 30th, with a total of nine medals: three gold, four silver, and two bronze. The games marked the return of the Asian Beach Games after a ten-year hiatus, with the previous edition taking place in Da Nang, Vietnam in 2016.
Strong Philippine Delegation
A 101-strong delegation represented the Philippines across 11 different sports at the games. The Philippine team was among the five largest delegations participating in the event. Competition began on April 21st, with the beach handball team initiating the country’s campaign a day before the official opening ceremony.
Flagbearers Lead the Charge
Jiu-jitsu athletes Annie Ramirez and Yman Xavier Baluyo had the honor of serving as the flagbearers for the Philippines during the opening ceremony.
Medal Tally
The Philippines’ medal haul included victories in ju-jitsu and beach athletics. Here’s a breakdown of the medalists:
Gold Medalists
- Alexandria Enriquez (Jiu-jitsu) – Women’s Ne-waza −63kg (April 23rd)
- Leonard Grospe (Beach Athletics) – Men’s High Jump (April 24th)
- Annie Ramirez (Jiu-jitsu) – Women’s Ne-waza −57kg (April 24th)
Silver Medalists
- Emily Rosalynn Thomas (Jiu-jitsu) – Women’s ne-waza −57kg (April 24th)
- Kristina Knott, Jessica Laurance, Lianne Diana Pama, Shane Joy Ponce (Beach Athletics) – Women’s 4 × 60m relay (April 26th)
- Dhenver Castillo (Sailing) – Foil Windsurfing Boys (April 27th)
- Gabi Bade, Mikka Cacho, Tantoy Ferrer, Kaye Pingol (3×3 Basketball) – Women’s team (April 29th)
Future Hosting Rights
Following the conclusion of the 2026 Asian Beach Games, China is expected to transfer the hosting rights for the next edition to the Philippines. Cebu City will host the 2028 Asian Beach Games, marking the first time the Philippines will host the event. The Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) officially signed the contract to host the 2028 games on April 28th in Sanya, China. The POC President, Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, expressed excitement about hosting both the Southeast Asian Plus Youth Games in late 2027 and the Asian Beach Games in 2028.