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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Marcos, Olympic Council of Asia push Philippine sports development, hosting bid

Marcos, Olympic Council of Asia push Philippine sports development, hosting bid

Published May 2, 2026 10:45 am  |  Updated May 2, 2026 02:49 pm
President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. welcomes Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani, President of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), in Malacañan on May 1, 2026. (Malacañang photo)
President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. welcomes Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani, President of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), in Malacañan on May 1, 2026. (Malacañang photo)

President Marcos said the Philippines is expanding opportunities for Filipino athletes as he met with Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) President Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani to strengthen cooperation in sports development and explore future hosting prospects.

The President welcomed the Qatari sports official during a courtesy call in Malacañan on May 1, marking the first high-level engagement between the OCA and the current administration.

In a Facebook post, Marcos said the government is working to give Filipino athletes more chances to train, compete, and succeed internationally.

“More opportunities for Filipino athletes to train, compete, and win on the world stage,” he said.

He added that the administration will continue investing in sports development to help athletes represent the country with pride.

“We will keep investing in our athletes so they can carry our flag with pride and inspire the next generation,” he said.

Sports cooperation

According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), the meeting focused on enhancing cooperation in athlete training, institutional partnerships, and access to regional programs under the OCA.

Both sides discussed expanding collaboration to support Filipino athletes through training initiatives and shared resources.

Hosting opportunities

President Marcos and Sheikh Joaan also explored the possibility of the Philippines hosting future regional and international sporting events.

The Palace said such opportunities could further position the country as a key player in regional sports.

‘Growing confidence’ in PH

Marcos said the engagement reflects increasing confidence in the Philippines as a sports partner in Asia.

“This shows growing confidence in the Philippines as a regional sports partner,” he said.

Meanwhile, the PCO underscored the importance of deeper engagement with the OCA to strengthen sports development across the region.

Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani serves as president of both the Olympic Council of Asia and the Qatar Olympic Committee, which oversees sports development initiatives across the region.

Related Tags

President Marcos Bongbong Marcos sports Olympics Olympic Council of Asia
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