Jean Claude Saclag bagged the Philippines’ first silver medal at the 2026 Asian Games, battling Tajikistan’s Otabek Rajabov in an intense championship bout in the men’s traditional -65kg division.

Saclag’s second-place finish marks a historical milestone for the delegation, making him one of the country's first medalists in mixed martial arts as the sport makes its official debut at the Asiad.

According to the Philippine Sports Commission, the silver performance pushed Team Philippines to 21st place in the overall medal tally as of 4:00 p.m. local time.

In addition to Saclag's silver, the Philippine contingent has captured three bronze medals, earning podium finishes across karate, mixed martial arts, and soft tennis.