The Filipino icon will be joined in Thailand by two-time Olympian Elreen Ann Ando, who will compete in the women’s 63kg category having won a bronze medal at last month’s World Championships in Forde, Norway.
The rest of the Philippines’ squad is made up of Rosegie Ramos (W 48kg), Jhodie Peralta (W 53kg), Kristel Macrohon (W 69kg), Fernando Agad Jr. (M 60kg), Dave Lloyd Pacaldo (M 65 kg), Albert Ian Delos Santos (M 71kg) and John Dexter Tabique (M 94kg).
“The SEA Games and the Asian Games are stepping stones for us,” said Monico Puentevella, the president of the Samahang Weightlifting ng Pilipinas (SWP).
“Win or lose, our goal is the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, so the lifters have to prove us they are capable or they will miss the boat.”