MANILA, Philippines — A 101-strong Philippine delegation is scheduled to fly to Sanya, China, this Monday, April 20, 2026, for the long-awaited 6th Asian Beach Games (ABG). Returning after a 10-year hiatus, the multi-sport event will officially open on Wednesday at the Yasha Park Phase 1 Ring Theater.
Two-time jiu-jitsu world champion Annie Ramirez has been named the flag bearer for the Philippines and will lead the parade of athletes during the opening ceremony.
The Philippines is competing across 15 different beach and water-based sports. Expectations are high for several key athletes:
- Jiu-Jitsu: Flag bearer Annie Ramirez and teammate Kaila Napolis are among the top favorites for gold.
- Beach Volleyball: The women’s squad, led by Sunny Villapando (a SEA Games gold medalist), features a strong lineup including Sofiah Pagara, Khyle Progella, and Grydelle Matibag.
- Triathlon/Aquathlon: Medal hopes rest on Raven Alcoseba and Erika Burgos for the women, and the men’s trio of Andrew Remolino, Inaki Lorbes, and Matthew Hermosa.
- Basketball 3×3: Both the men’s and women’s quartets are considered strong contenders for the podium.
Complete List of Sporting Entries: 3×3 Basketball, Open Water Swimming, Water Polo, Aquathlon, Beach Athletics, Beach Handball, Beach Kabaddi, Beach Soccer, Beach Volleyball, Beach Wrestling, Dragon Boat, Jiu-Jitsu, Sailing, Sport Climbing, and Teqball.
The Sanya Games carry extra significance for the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC). Cebu City has been designated as the host for the 7th Asian Beach Games in 2028, marking the first time the country will host this specific continental event.
POC President Abraham Tolentino, alongside Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival and Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro, will be in attendance for the closing ceremony on April 30 to officially accept the ABG flag.
“It will be a highly anticipated event for us as the next host,” Tolentino stated. “We will showcase not only our athletes’ performance, but just as important our readiness as a host.”
Since the inaugural Games in 2008 (Bali, Indonesia), the Philippines has amassed a total of 5 gold, 10 silver, and 35 bronze medals. The return of the ABG in Sanya marks a major milestone for Asian sports following the decade-long break since the 2014 Phuket Games.