THE Philippines showed promise ahead of the Asian Games after bagging silver and bronze at the 39th Thai King’s Cup Sepaktakraw World Championships 2026 in Bangkok.
The men’s regu team of Jason Huerte, Jom Lerry Rafael, Reynaldo Asilum Jr., Ronsited Gabayeron and Glindel Phori defeated Brunei and China before stunning Malaysia to reach the final for the first time in seven years.
The team, however, yielded to perennial world champion Thailand 12-15, 11-15 in the battle for gold.
Mary Ann Lopez, Kristine Lapsit, Rachelle Palomar, Nieva Jane Salon, Heart Makiling and Rhea Mae Dela Cruz ranked third in women’s Quadrant.
Philippine SepakTakraw Inc. president Karen Tanchanco Caballero said the results showed they are moving in the right direction, but also indicated there is still work ahead as they continue their preparations for the Aichi-Nagoya 20th Asian Games next month.
The podium finishes are also expected to serve as momentum for the country as it plays host to the ASTAF U19 Asian Sepak Takraw Championships in Manila this November.