This, as the country also pursues its goal to become a sports tourism hub in the region.
On Friday (May 1), President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday welcomed Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) and the Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) President Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani.
The OCA oversees major multi-sport events across Asia and plays a key role in shaping regional sports participation and development opportunities for member nations.
Its decisions have direct impact on the Philippines’ participation in regional competitions, as well as its access to development resources and funding.
OCA President Al Thani was joined by Qatar’s Ambassador to the Philippines Ahmed Saad N.A. Al-Homidi, and OCA Director General Husain A.H.Z Al Musallam, and other officials.
On the Philippine side, meanwhile, Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) President Abraham Tolentino and Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman John Patrick Gregorio were also present.
During the courtesy call at Malacañang, both discussed the exploration of an expanded cooperation in sports development.
Specifically discussed were ways to enhance cooperation in athlete training, institutional partnerships, as well as assessing the Philippines’ potential to host future regional and international sporting competitions.
President Marcos and OCA President Al Thani also emphasized the importance of deepening engagements with the OCA, to let Filipino athletes get broader access to programs and resources that support their development.
Marcos also shared in a social media post that the meeting reflects the administration’s unwavering commitment to expanding opportunities for Filipino athletes to “train, compete and win on the world stage.”
The President added that the engagement demonstrates growing confidence in the Philippines as a regional sports partner.
He also noted that the government will continue supporting athletes and told, “We will keep investing in our athletes so they can carry our flag with pride and inspire the next generation.”
President Marcos also expressed appreciation to OCA President Al Thani and his delegation for finding the time to visit the country despite his busy schedule.
Last Monday, April 27, the OCA and the Philippines, through the Philippine Olympic Committee, signed the landmark agreement for the country’s hosting of the 2028 Asian Beach Games in Cebu.