Nagoya, Japan, September 13, 2026: The Philippine Olympic Committee has announced its two flagbearers for the opening ceremony of the 20th Asian Games on Saturday, September 19.
Olympic boxing bronze medallist Aira Villegas and world junior weightlifting champion Albert Ian Delos Santos will carry the Philippine colours at the head of the delegation for the athletes’ parade.
POC President Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino explained that the decision was a careful balance of honoring stellar credentials while navigating tight schedule logistics.
The POC prioritized athletes whose competition schedules did not conflict with the opening festivities. Many athletes have games scheduled immediately after the ceremony or are stationed hours away in Tokyo, making participation too exhausting.
Tennis star Alex Eala was initially considered for the prestigious honor. However, she will be arriving straight from the Singapore Open and needs crucial time to rest and focus on her upcoming Asiad matches.
Aira Villegas, 31, is fresh off her heroic bronze medal finish at light flyweight at the 2024 Paris Olympics, while young phenom Albert Ian Delos Santos, 20, has been breaking multiple world records and capturing gold at the World Junior Championships.
“As Aira beautifully stated, to carry the flag is to carry the hopes, dreams, sacrifices and prayers of an entire nation. Congratulations, Aira and Ian! The whole country is marching behind you,” the POC stated.