Local medalists from the 33rd Southeast Asian Games were honored Monday during a flag-raising ceremony at City Hall, but the celebration was met with a blunt message from the athletes: Baguio’s champions need more than just commendations to stay competitive.
While Mayor Benjamin Magalong praised the 23 athletes for their resilience during the December games in Thailand, several medalists used the platform to urge the government to bridge the gap in financial and logistical support.
“There are really sports that need more support,” said Zyra Gados Bon-as, a gold medalist in kickboxing. “If our government can provide more without affecting other sectors, why not?”
Bon-as noted that while team and family support help ease the mental and physical toll of elite competition, the government’s backing remains a critical missing piece for many.
The call for better resources was echoed by Mariane Bantasan Mariano, 37, a two-time bronze medalist in jiujitsu. Mariano offered a sharp critique of the local administration, comparing Baguio’s efforts unfavorably to other provinces. She noted that other local governments provide more “hands-on” sports directors, consistent social media recognition, and direct access to public officials.
“The world of sports is incredibly difficult—there is the exhaustion, body pain, injuries, and surgeries from training,” Mariano said. “There are financial struggles, and most importantly, a need for emotional and mental support before and during competition.”
For Godwin Amos Langbayan, 36, who also secured a jiujitsu bronze, the current incentives are a step up from previous years—particularly for those in the military who receive rank promotions—but international hurdles remain.
“It’s good, it’s better than before,” Langbayan said. “But it’s still difficult when it comes to international exposure and training. It’s expensive to go abroad.”
Baguio’s athletes were instrumental in the Philippines’ 277-medal haul in Thailand, where the country finished sixth overall. The group honored Monday included poomsae gold medalist Justin Kobe Macario and MMA bronze medalist Denzel Jon Alipio. Boxers Aira Villegas (silver) and Nesthy Petecio (bronze) were also honored but were unable to attend due to prior commitments.
The plea for better infrastructure comes just days after the Philippine Sports Commission announced a partnership with the city to establish a regional training center for the Cordilleras. The proposed facility is expected to include dormitories and dedicated training halls, a move that may address some of the athletes’ concerns regarding long-term development.
Despite the lack of resources, Baguio continues to punch above its weight class. The city recently secured a second-place finish in the 2025 Batang Pinoy national championships, trailing only Pasig City in the overall medal standings. Lyndee Buenagua and Tuesday Javar/UP Baguio Intern