MANILA, Philippines — The polo matches in next year’s SEA Games will get a royal touch with scions of the rich and famous eager to showcase their wares in pursuit of sporting glory.
First to confirm their participation are the royalties of Brunei who are out to improve on their bronze medal showing two years ago in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
The participation of the tiny but rich nation was relayed to United Polo Players Association (UPPA) chairman emeritus and Rep. Mikee Romero (1 Pacman Party-List) during the 72nd birthday of Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah last week, an event highlighted by a polo tournament.
Princess Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah and Prince Abdul Mateen will banner the powerful cast that is training in earnest under some of the world’s finest European coaches.
“We at the UPPA are elated that Brunei has confirmed its participation this early,” said Romero, who also thanked the Philippine SEA Games Organizing Committee head Sec. Alan Cayetano and Philippine Olympic Committee officials led by its president Ricky Vargas and chairman Rep. Bambol Tolentino for their support.
Also expected to see action for Brunei are Prince Muda Bahar Bolkiah and Prince Abdul Qawi Bolkiah.
UPPA is headed by Coco Garcia, son of former Philippine Sports Commission chairman Richie Garcia with Hollywood film producer Jun Juban as chairman.
The presence of the royalties, UPPA said, is not only an honor but also a challenge for the host country noted for its hospitality and efficiency in staging multi-sports events.
Aside from the Phl, Thailand looms as a big threat to Malaysia’s title-retention bid.
Romero said the wealthy clan of Srivaddhanaprabha – Aiyawatt and Apichet – will spearhead Thailand’s campaign while Malaysia will be led byAbdul Rashid Hasnan, Amran Selamat, Khairy Jamaluddin and Mohd Zulhelmi Nadzar.
The association said it will coordinate with various government agencies to ensure the safety of the VIPs set to compete in the event.
“We are readying all safety measures not only for the athletes and officials but also for our guests,” said Romero. “We will make this SEA Games an event to remember.”