LOOK: Team Philippines makes its entrance at the 2026 Asian Games
Team Philippines made its entry at the opening ceremony of the 20th Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.
The grand multi-sport spectacle officially kicked off on Saturday, Sept. 19, bringing a powerful message of unity. With around 15,000 athletes representing 45 countries and territories across Asia, the event boasts a participation count that exceeds the Olympics.
Leading the Philippine delegation into the Mizuho Stadium were flag bearers Aira Villegas, an Olympic boxing medalist, and Albert Ian Delos Santos, a weightlifting world record holder.
The athletes wore the "Malaya" barong and matching cap, made by fashion designer Francis Libiran. According to Libiran, the design is made of "symbols that speak of who we are: MALAYA- written in Baybayin, Kalinga-inspired patterns, and the colors and rays of the Philippine flag. Together, they tell a story of heritage, strength, freedom, and pride, carried onto the world stage."
The Asian Games will run from Sept. 19 to Oct. 4 in Aichi Prefecture and its capital city Nagoya, which is the third Japanese city to host the Asian Games.
Returning to its traditional four-year cycle after the 2022 edition was postponed to 2023, this year's Games also mark the 75th anniversary of the inaugural 1951 Asian Games held in New Delhi, India.
