MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines is set to play a major role in launching a new international youth sporting event, as the country prepares to host the inaugural Southeast Asian Plus Youth Games—a multi sport competition aimed at developing young athletic talent across the region.
The Southeast Asian Plus Youth Games (SEA Plus YG) has been formally approved by regional Olympic leaders and is intended to serve as a developmental platform for athletes 17 years old and under, providing crucial competitive experience before larger events such as the Asian Youth Games and the Youth Olympic Games.
A New Stage for Young Athletes
The SEA Plus Youth Games were proposed to fill a gap in youth sports competition in Southeast Asia and beyond, responding to the need for age appropriate international exposure for emerging athletes. Manila has been selected as the host city for the first edition, planned in 2028, with subsequent editions to be held biennially in alignment with the Asian Youth Games calendar.
Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, who played a central role in pushing for the event’s creation, said the SEA Plus YG will offer a mix of Olympic aligned and regional sports. It will include at least two compulsory sports and up to a dozen Olympic sports, as well as non Olympic and traditional events, broadening opportunities for youth athletes to showcase their talents.
Regional Support and Strategic Vision
The initiative has garnered backing from multiple Southeast Asian National Olympic Committees, including those of Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, Vietnam, and Timor Leste. Leaders from the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) have also expressed their support, recognizing the event’s potential to strengthen grassroots sports development across the region.
The “Plus” in the Games’ name reflects plans to invite at least one National Olympic Committee from outside Southeast Asia for each edition, adding competitive diversity and enhancing the event’s profile. Preparing for the Future
Hosting the SEA Plus Youth Games positions the Philippines at the forefront of regional youth athletics and underscores the country’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of elite competitors. Sports officials say the competition will help Filipino and regional athletes gain valuable experience and confidence on the international stage.
In addition to the SEA Plus Youth Games, the Philippines is also set to host other major sporting occasions, reflecting its growing reputation as a hub for international sports events.
As preparations continue, organizers and government agencies are expected to ramp up planning for venues, logistics, and athlete support, ensuring that the Philippines delivers a memorable and impactful debut for the Southeast Asian Plus Youth Games.