The Philippines emerged as the overall champion of the 30th Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games) in a grand announcement during the closing ceremony in New Clark City, Tarlac on Wednesday.
The country won 149 golds, followed by Vietnam with 97 golds, and Thailand winning the third place with 92.
The closing ceremony started with ‘Journey’ vocalist Arnel Pineda singing the national anthem.
Flags of the countries who competed in the regional meet were displayed afterwards at the Athletics Stadium in New Clark City.
Singer Pineda then serenaded the audience with Journey’s hits in a mini concert. His stellar performance became a trending topic on Twitter Philippines.
A drone light show mesmerized the audience and netizens watching the closing ceremony.
It was capped off by a grand fireworks display.
Singapore’s Quah Zheng Wen won the Male Mega Athlete Award for winning six golds and one silver medal.
Female Mega Athlete Award went to Nguyen Thi Anh Vien who win six golds and two silvers in the entire duration of the competition.
Hero surfer Roger Casugay was the flag bearer of the Philippines during the closing rites, he also received
