Alex Eala and Bryan Bagunas ahead of the opening ceremony of the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok, Thailand. POC Media
BANGKOK, Thailand — Filipina tennis ace Alex Eala was still on cloud nine after proudly carrying the country's flag at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games opening ceremony on Tuesday.
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Eala was one of the country's flag-bearers alongside Alas Pilipinas men's team captain Bryan Bagunas during the athletes parade held at the Rajamangala National Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand.
"It was surreal! Nakatulong din na andoon si Kuya Bryan [Bagunas]. I think it was just good vibes to be with the whole delegation, and I am so blessed. It’s an experience of a lifetime," the 20-year-old said in an interview with POC Media.
Eala and Bagunas led the country's delegation at the opening ceremony, dressed in barongs created by Filipino designer Avel Bacudio.
Alex's father Mike was a proud dad watching the 20-year-old make history once again, while fulfilling their dreams as a family.
"Sobrang happy. It was a dream since she was a kid to see her carry the national colors. It’s a dream come true. Grabe. I am speechless," he told POC Media.
Alex gives a boost to the Philippine national tennis team, which will kick off action in the women's team event this Wednesday afternoon.