Tennis sensation Alex Eala and men’s volleyball standout Bryan Bagunas is set to carry the Philippine flag at the opening ceremony of the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok on December 9.

“Popularity aside, Alex and Bryan have made impacts in the global sports community, and that makes them the best choice to carry the flag in the SEA Games,” ayon kay Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) President Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino.

Eala, who won three bronze medals at the 2022 Hanoi SEA Games in women’s singles, mixed doubles, and the women’s team events, returns to the regional meet aiming to add more to her medal haul.

Bagunas, the face of the Alas Pilipinas men’s volleyball team, has also been a key figure in elevating the country’s presence in international volleyball competitions.

Eala makes her SEA Games comeback three years after claiming three bronze medals in Hanoi, in women’s singles, mixed doubles, and the women’s team events.